Holiday in August: Value Sparkling Wines for Everyday Celebrations

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Lets cheers Happy new year 2009
A few weeks ago a friend on Twitter asked for some value recommendations for sparkling wines to serve at a wedding.  I drink very little sparkling wine myself so I was stumped.  I asked for suggestions and Gloria Ferrer and Gruet were mentioned multiple times along with others.  Here are a few more options in this guest post from Alexis Bonari from CollegeScholarships.org.  I hope you enjoy it. -Bob

My fifth wedding anniversary is fast approaching, and I'm faced with a dilemma. Usually, I would dazzle the love of my life with a much-appreciated meal paired with a high-end sparkling wine.  For our first anniversary, we enjoyed the ubiquitous Dom Pérignon.  Each year since then our selections have been decidedly non-budget friendly. 

In short, we were spoiled.  This year, the recession and other extenuating factors have necessitated a change in strategy.  Luckily, we have discovered at least three solid value sparkling wines in our years together.  Although they might not be as complex or sophisticated as their higher-priced counterparts, the following selections certainly aren't to be overlooked:

Domaine Chandon Napa Valley, California

Created by California-based French wine cellar Moët-Chandon, the reserve can be had for less than $25.  Tones of fruit (strawberries and cherries) are followed by an exceptional creamy finish.

Roederer Estate
Anderson Valley, California

While you might have to go somewhat above $25 for the reserve selections, Roederer Estate sparkling wines maintain a great deal of the original champagne influence thanks to the climate in Anderson Valley, California.  The Brut NV has pear and spice overtones with a hint of hazelnut in the background.  Although the description may sound heavy, the overall flavors are quite light and pleasant.

Segura Viudas Reserva Heredad
Catalonia, Spain

Using the traditional method, bubbles are formed in the bottle to create this Spanish delight.  This is a traditional example of a label wine, as the Segura Viudas Reserva Heredad was originally created for use by the Segura family. It has a aromatic floral appeal with a citrusy zing at the end. Bottles run for about $22. 


While these particular sparkling wines may not be readily available at your local gourmet food shop, they are worth seeking out online if you have time to plan ahead.  If time is of the essence, don't be afraid to try a sparkling wine from Italy, Spain, California, or some other unique locale.  A sparkling wine doesn't have to hail from Champagne France to be noteworthy.

Alexis Bonari is a freelance writer and blog junkie. She is a passionate blogger on the topic of education and free college scholarships. In her spare time, she enjoys square-foot gardening, swimming, and avoiding her laptop.

Photo Credit: nlmAdestiny

What are some of your favorite value plays in sparkling wine?

Topics

  © Blogger templates Newspaper by Ourblogtemplates.com 2008

Back to TOP