Here’s a list of the top brands in the industry that are easily accessible to consumers across the United States:

• Dom Perignon – produced by Moet  and Chandon, and owned by LVMH this famous label is named after the famous monk, who in 1668 began producing fine sparkling wines for Louis 14th, the Sun King.  Mark dove in to history of Dom Perignon earlier. 400k cases per year.
• Krug – also owned by LVMH, Krug is recognized as one of the nuttier  champagnes out there with a strong influence of the oak aging.
• Vueve Clicquot – also falling under the shiny LVMH umbrella since the mid 80’s Veuve is heavily marketed in the US and easily recognizably by their yellow label.  Madame Clicquot was influential in developing the riddling and degourgement process that makes large scale product possible.
• Moet & Chandon  – they are the official house of Queen Elizabeth the second and a part of the same portfolio as Louis Vuitton.  2M cases per year.
• Cristal – produced by Louis Roederer, was initially  produced for Alexander II of Russia and is widely considered the first premium cuvee.  Flashy websites are all the rage in this class of wines.  Also, 400k cases per year.
• Louis Roederer – famed producer of Cristal, dates all the way back to the same year that Our Declaration of Independence was signed. Another 250k cases, beyond the Cristal.
• Henriot – this independent house is a favorite of Mark, and has a rich history dating back to 1808. Surely, this is one of the up and coming wines that is really delivering on value right now. 
• Laurent – Perrier – makers of the best selling  Rose champagne, and one of my personal favorites, they also proclaim to the best the oldest family owned house.  They contract with a whopping 1200 growers each year and their 2008 revenue was over 180M. Imagine managing that many growers, and keeping quality consistent!
• Perrier-Jouet  – Owned by Pernod Ricard, this house was also founded in the early 19th century and produces on a massive scale out of the Epernay region.   Their website is definitely creepy. 250k cases per year.
• Taittinger – run by Claude Tattinger out of a massive  mansion near Reims, these folks export 2/3 of their production. Their flagship wine is a 100% chardonnay effort called Comtes de Champagne.
• Charles Heidsieck  – the champagne for “those who know” is very proud of their many gold medals and awards at county fairs.  Chuck, who lived in the mid 19th century is widely credited with popularizing champagne in the US. 
• Mumm – the official champagne of Formula One Racing, they also have a large operation in Napa.
• Bollinger – one of the last remaining family owned operations, they ferment much of the champagnes in oak.  100k cases.

St. Laurent is worth a visit, if only for the view.  Their Syrah Rose makes a nice summer day in the hills above Wenatchee heavenly.  Winemaker Craig Mitrakul created this blend of Syrah, Reisling, and Chardonnay from 100% Wahluke Slope fruit.

“Our Rose has flavors and aromas of cherry, raspberry, apricot and melon.   On the palate these fruit flavors lead to a crisp dry finish.   Estate grown on our Wahluke Slope vineyards nestled above the Columbia River in Mattawa, Washington… It’s great chilled on its own or a wonderful companion to salads, seafood or barbequed chicken. The perfect accompaniment to morning brunch or refreshing and delicious on a warm sunny day. From the Mrachek family vineyards to you.”