Commentary by Elizabeth Morse
December is here, and I’ve got three delicious and versatile sparklers to suggest. While I have your attention, I’d also like to point out that bubbles should be enjoyed often and not reserved for special occasions. They are such a delicious addition to any meal, and at so many price-points, there is no reason to skimp.
Here’s your party wine: Pizzolato Fields Prosecco Spumante, $14ish. Juicy but elegant with bright, green apple, lemon and a bit of hazelnut. Nice and bubbly, and great as a starter or with food.
Your sweetish choice: Banfi Rosa Regale, approximately $17. This is a unique red sparkler made from Brachetto D’acqui. Subtle pink bubbles that smell like roses but taste like raspberries and strawberries. If you are looking for a wine to go with chocolate dessert, you’ve found it. Balanced and soft but not too sweet.
The splurge: $40 Heidsieck Monopole Blue Top Brut. Toasty and buttery, with rich and heady flavors of white fruit. From one of the oldest houses in the Champagne region of France. Made of pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay grapes, this “Blanc de noirs” is always a crowd-pleaser.
Got a favorite that you think I should know about? Drop me a note: [email protected]
