Summer has unofficially begun, and hence cocktail hour commences just a little earlier each Friday when we arrive in the Hamptons.  To kick off the season, our champagne du jour is the Armand de Brignac Gold Brut, and even better when it’s by the magnum.  Otherwise known as the Ace of Spades, or Jay Z’s champagne company, the classic Gold Brut is a staple in our summer house fridge.  After all, you never know when Jay & Bey may swing by unexpectedly.  Our mantra is to always be prepared.

For those getting wine technical, the Gold Brut is 40% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Meunier.  It’s a trio of vintages from 2009, 2010 and 2012.  This champagne inspires us to sear some scallops, which are prime local catch right now in the Hamptons.  In July, when the Montauk striped bass floods the fish markets, we’re planning to fire up the grill and place those stripers right on top with just Le Saunier de Camargue fleur de sel and high-quality Greek olive oil.  Until then, catch us at cocktail hour shucking oysters and serving an oh-so-chilled glass with our favorite Petrossian caviar.