Three Must try Sparkling Wines for 2020

Balzac Billy didn’t see his shadow so time to break out the bubbles.  Here are three favourite sparkling wines and styles for your consideration.  I am excluding true Champagnes as many may still be dealing with the Christmas credit card blues.

Let’s start off with Prosecco made from the grape Glera.  It is always crisp and fresh with a hint of sweetness.  The key with Prosecco is not to overspend as we are talking about a simple wine primarily made in stainless steel tanks.  It is not bottle fermented so there is far less labour involved.  My favourites come from Valdobbiadene (the home of Prosecco) and have the venerable Italian DOCG tag which guarantees a high standard of winemaking.  Good friends introduced me to Drusian Brut Prosecco Superiore which hits a great balance between value and quality.

Cava is sparkling wine from Spain that follows the Methodo Tradicional which uses bottle fermentation to get fine mousse and a brioche vibe that so many crave in a Champagne.   Cava brings outstanding value and I have always loved the Segura Viudas Brut Rose.  It is unique in that it uses an indigenous grape Trepat which creates a perfect balance of freshness and fruit without getting too jammy or sweet.

Finally, if you are looking for something a little closer to true Champagne why not try Domaine Carneros Brut?  It comes from the south end of the Napa Valley and is one of the most beautiful places to experience a tasting.  Champagne Taittinger established this property so you are stealing value as you get elegant French winemaking technique combined with the sensational fruit that Napa is known for but at a very fair price point.

These wines are all available locally and can be found by using the Liquor Connect website at www.liquorconnect.com.