As we close in on the new year, this Tuesday Tasting is all about the bubbles as we try 3 classic sparkling Bruts from around the world that are made in the traditional méthode champenoise (fermented in the bottle like Champagne), but without the accompanying price tag. Featuring
- Graham Beck Brut, South Africa—Made by famous South African vintner Pieter Ferreira (known throughout the industry as ‘Bubbles’) this crisp sparkling white combines new world fruitiness –think mango and gooseberry–with bready aromas for a classic sparkling described by Wine Advocate “one of the best showings of Ferreira’s work”. $18 btl, $8 btg
- Saint-Hilaire Crémant de Limoux, France – Noted as France’s oldest sparkling wine (started 100 years before Dom Perignon) and described by critics as similar to a “high-quality Champagne at one-third the price” this hidden gem is tastes of ripe pear, green apple, tangerine and a hint of fresh ginger and almond. $18 btl, $8 btg
- Sophora Sparkling Cuvée, New Zealand—We’ve long been fans of this Northern New Zealand winery’s sparkling rosé, and this Chardonnay and Pinot Noir blend doesn’t disappoint: elegant aromas and a full palate of ripe oven baked fruit, warm croissants and a touch of citrus make for a long lush mouthful of sparkling white. $15 btl, $7 btg
Tasting: $12