Yeah, yeah, we know: “Champagne” is that fizzy stuff that comes from France–specifically, the Champagne region. When it’s grown in other places, like California, it’s merely “sparkling wine” (or champagne with a lowercase “c”). But you’ll forgive us if at Pops for Champagne’s Efferfest our bubble-fueled giddiness begins to slur–we mean blur–the distinction. We plan to let the rules fly out the window, and that’s sort of the point. “The misconception is that [sparkling wine] is for special events,” Pops’ Tom Verhey says. “There are different styles and different price points.” The three-hour event features sparklers from 15 different countries, along with food stations featuring regionally inspired canapes to complement the fizz. Chef Jacob Smith is planning munchies including a duck confit, cranberry and brie tartlet; mussels with chorizo sauce; and Grand Marnier-flavored strawberries. Smith’s most important rule of thumb when it comes to making the perfect champagne pairing? That it tastes good to you. Hey, we’ll drink to that! 4-7 p.m. Sunday. $32. 2934 N. Sheffield Ave. 773-472-1000.
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