Affordable Bubbles for Christmas

Wine Appraiser

Champagne, Prosecco, Cava, Cremant, Traditional Method (classic method or methode champenoise), Tank Method (Charmat Method), Brut, Extra Dry, and Dry.

Tonight we will delve into the world of sparkling wines. First, what is a sparkling wine?

A sparkling wine is one with carbonation. So we can start with how the carbonation gets into the wine. First, there is the Traditional Method where the carbonation is produced through a secondary fermentation of the wine in the bottle. This is how Champagnes are made, as well as many other sparkling wines from around the world. It is often a more expensive wine due to the labor involved in production. Sparkling wines can also be produced using the tank method or (Charmat Method). Prosecco is made by the tank method which involves a second fermentation that takes place in a large tank. Then the wine is bottled under pressure to maintain the pressure.

If you like a dry wine, look for a Brut or Extra Brut. If you prefer a sweeter wine, look for a Dry, Sec, or Doux.

Tonight, we will try two sparkling wines including:

1. Sterling Vintner’s Collection California Brut. We purchased this wine from Costco for $12.89. The Wine Enthusiast rated it an 88, and noted a touch of sweetness with notes of cherry and jasmine blossom, nectarine, apricot, and cut grass.
2. Cooper’s Hawk Sparkling Lux. We purchased this wine from Cooper’s Hawk for $34.99. The wine is produced in the Traditional Method and is made from grapes grown in the Bordeaux region of France. It is made from 70% Semiillon and 30% Cabernet Franc. Aromas of green apple, lemon, yellow pear, and toast. Called a Cremant de Bordeaux.

Next week we will have our year in review show. Our final wine of the year is Denise’s favorite Champagne:

1. Pol Roger. We purchased it at Costco for $64.99.