Does a higher price tag really mean a better product?

This week, we check out soaps and champagne.

In my bathroom at home, I always keep a bottle of Molton Brown London liquid hand wash. No matter how many times I wash my hands, this never dries my skin out. The light, pleasant scents, from Thai vert to white mulberry, linger long enough to remind you that your hands are clean, but don’t stick long enough to be overwhelming. — $25.00

By my kitchen sink, I keep a trusty bottle of the environmentally-friendly Method hand wash. Though Method gets points for its biodegradable formula and recyclable container, as well as its availability (Wegmans and Target both carry the line), it always dries out my hands and does not smell nearly as pleasant as Molton Brown. — $3.99

THE VERDICT: Molton Brown Wins

At many a frat party, I have seen cases upon cases of André, the inexpensive (and often flavored) sparkling wine that many partygoers carry around by the bottle. The André Brut has a dry, unpleasant flavor and inevitably leaves me with a headache that no amount of Advil can cure. — $4.99

Andre

On the other hand, champagne can be a bubbly and delicious treat. Moët & Chandon Dom Pérignon, available in a 1999 vintage at Stella’s, is one such bottle. When it comes to champagne, thrift and quality tend not to overlap. However, for a less expensive version, try Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label or Moët & Chandon White Star. — $195.00

Dom Pérignon

THE VERDICT: Dom Pérignon Wins