Mommy's Time Out

She gave you life; buy her a drink

By TYLER BALLIET

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This Mother's Day, while you're imbibing over eggs benedict at an elegant restaurant (you did make reservations, right?), we suggest opting for some bubbly. It's a subtle and classy way to say, "Thanks for raising me, Mom; now let's get drunk—I mean, celebrate—in the middle of the day." There are many options to choose from, including Champagne, sparkling wine and the vitamin C-laced mimosa. Below, we cover the brunchy basics. You're on your own (with some alcoholic fortitude) for the inevitable "ugh, can we not talk about that, Mom?" conversations.

ORDER THE REAL THING

Genuine Champagne from the Champagne region of France is typically reserved for celebrations, special occasions and/or women. What a coincidence! You'll be toasting the woman who birthed you on her own dedicated day, so this is a good excuse to spend a little extra cash on a bottle of the real thing. Champagne in restaurants certainly isn't cheap, and bottle prices can quickly climb into the hundreds. However, the quality of this wine is high, so don't feel bad ordering the least expensive option on the menu. Many establishments, such as Aquitaine [569 Tremont St., South End, Boston. 617.424.8577. aquitaineboston.com], carry the Nicolas Feuillatte Brut ($68). This is a creamy and rich wine that will pair excellently with fresh fruit or a cheese-filled omelet.

NO RESERVATIONS NEEDED

Lack of a reservation will eliminate most classy brunch joints in Boston, but it won't necessarily keep the bubbles at bay. Take mom to a "casual" place where, instead of white tablecloths and black-clad servers, the entire staff sports their PJs. Tremont 647 [647 Tremont St., South End, Boston. 617.266.4600. tremont647.com] serves tasty brunch fare until 3pm on the weekends, and while there is usually a short line, you can grab a beverage while you wait. Order a mimosa, which comes in two sizes: the regular served in a Champagne flute or (our recommendation) the large served in a full-size wine glass.

OUT-OF-TOWN MOM

If your mother doesn't live in the city, or even in this time zone, don't worry. She can still get some tasty bubbles and a decent daytime buzz. Send mom a bottle of Schramsberg Blanc de Noirs sparkling wine comprised mainly from Pinot Noir grapes. Schramsberg is the oldest sparkling wine producer in California and they make very high-quality wine for a few bucks cheaper than the French stuff. [Available at schramsberg.com for $36.50, plus shipping]

Due to the Bay State's "blue laws," shipping alcohol elsewhere can be tricky. It's best to use a national retailer that is allowed to ship to most states. If you need to slip a bottle behind the iron booze curtain of states like Maine, Vermont or Wisconsin, it's best to contact a retailer within the state itself.

Drink More Wine!

FOR MORE INFORMATION: THESECONDGLASS.COM