There are few gifts as universally welcome as a bottle of proper Champagne. It is festive by definition, it needs no explanation, and it turns any arrival into an occasion. Here is what to give this Christmas, at every level.

The joy of giving Champagne is that it is impossible to get wrong, as long as it is the real thing. The only question is how far to go, and the range runs from a dependable, always-good classic to a prestige cuvee that will be talked about long after the wrapping paper is gone. All of these are in stock and ready to give.

The Reliable Classics

For the host, the colleague or the thank-you, you want a name people recognise and a wine that never disappoints. Laurent-Perrier La Cuvee is all lemon and white flowers and impeccable freshness, while Veuve Clicquot's Yellow Label is the bottle that taught much of the world what Champagne should taste like. Both are safe in the best possible sense.

A Touch of Romance

For something with a little more theatre, rose Champagne is the gift that looks as good as it tastes. Laurent-Perrier's Cuvee Rose, in its flask-shaped bottle, is the benchmark of the style, made properly by maceration, while Louis Roederer's Collection is the understated choice for someone who knows their wine. Pink, pretty and never sweet.

The Showstoppers

For the gift that genuinely takes someone's breath away, there is prestige Champagne. Louis Roederer's Cristal, born for a tsar, is one of the most coveted bottles in the world, while Laurent-Perrier's Grand Siecle blends three great vintages into something close to perfection. These are not presents; they are events.

For the difference between the great houses, see our Champagne region guide, and for value fizz, our guide to the best Champagne deals.

A bottle of Champagne under the tree is a promise of good things to come. Give the classic for safety, the rose for charm, or the prestige cuvee when only the very best will do.