Champagne has always been the wine of celebration. Typically a blend of chardonnay, pinot noir, or pinot meunier grapes, champagne comes from the Champagne region of France. Sparkling wines from other regions of France and countries including Italy, Spain, and the United States can be just as pleasing at prices that are more affordable than champagne.
Sparkling wines are very versatile and can be served as with or without food or even with dessert. It is important to use proper glasses when serving sparkling wines. A long-stemmed flute is best as it keeps the bubbles from dissipating too quickly.
If you need some sparklers to celebrate the arrival of 2011, here are a few recommendations that will surely satisfy. Happy New Year!
Blason de Bourgogne Cremant de Bourgogne Rose – $9.99
This is a pleasing, straight forward rose. Best served ice cold, it has a tart cranberry and raspberry flavor with a very clean, quick finish. This would pair nicely with a variety of appetizers or a ham dinner. If you are not a fan of sparkling roses, the brut from the same producer is also very good and priced at $9.99.
Blason de Bourgogne Cremant de Bourgogne Rose – $9.99
California sparkling wine (Charmat method). This chardonnay sparkler is crisp and citrusy and not too sweet like many in this price range. Low in alcohol at 11%, this is perfect for mimosas. An extremely good value at about half the price of Korbel.
Barefoot Bubbly Brut Cuvee – $6.49
It’s very difficult to find champagne for under $30.00 these days but leave it to Trader Joes’s to offer one at less than $20.00. This cuvee from Epernay is the real deal. Small, tight bubbles with a crisp acidity. It has good body with a slight toast taste. You won’t find a better champagne at this price.
Jeanmaire Cuvee Brut Champagne – $18.99