B U B B L Y D E L I C I O U S
b y T A Y L O R E A S O N
A FEW PRODUCERS TO LOOK FOR: Mionetto Prosecco Brut, $12 Sorelle Bronca Prosecco Brut, $18 Zardetto Prosecco Brut, $15 Codorniu Pinot Noir Brut Cava, $16
ALWAYS IT’S
Segura Viudas Aria, $12 Cristalino Brut Cava, $10
A GOOD DAY TO SPARKLE!
Sparkling wine might seem like an extravagant purchase, but it can be sanity-saving — the difference between a stellar day or one that is decidedly mediocre. Bubbles have a way of scouring away the blues, making even meatloaf night a bit brighter. So, perhaps it’s time to loosen the purse strings just a little bit and party again (while holding the spending to a low roar). Hip-Hop stars may have popularized the higher end $200 French champagnes, further putting this recession-flogged wine segment on a pedestal. But over the past several years, Italian proseccos and Spanish cavas, satisfactory substitutes for the French stuff, have increased their market share. Selection is at an all-time high, and they often cost under $20 per bottle.
Most French champagne and American sparkling wines are made from chardonnay and pinot noir grapes (a third, pinot meunier, is often blended in). But Italian prosecco and Spanish cava producers use indigenous grapes that are easier and less expensive to grow. The Italians turn to a perfumey grape called prosecco for this namesake bubbly. It’s lightly fizzy and refreshing and can be absolutely beautiful, and occasionally complete rubbish. To avoid the wineries looking to make a quick buck, shopping by name or at least a specific region is imperative. Look for those from Veneto in northeastern Italy as well as the sub-regions of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene.
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