Champagne & Sparkling Wine

Feb 182012
 
NV J Brut Rose, Russian River Valley Sparkling Wine, CA $32 (S) – Rating 90

A full-bodied pinkish colored dry Pinot sparkler. Delicious flavors of juicy strawberry, ripe raspberry, citrus with hints of rhubarb and blood orange. A touch of toasty yeast and honey notes add to the complexity. Don’t wait for a celebration to pour this lovely. Paired beautifully with salmon, grilled rare .

Dec 292010
 
NV Sparkling Wine, Russsian River Valley, CA (S) $32 – Rating 90

Let’s talk sensual. Amorosa Bella “beautiful lover” is headed by Dr. Charlyn Belluzzo, the author of “Authentic Sensual Living; Your Guide to Igniting All Your Senses and Enriching Your Life.” The winery promotes a sensual lifestyle by combining wines with candles, perfume, sensual music, art and lingerie. This rose colored blend of Pinot and Chardonnay is a crisp sexy baby that will put you in the “mood.”

Dec 292010
 
NV Napa Valley Sparkling Wine, Napa Valley, CA (S) $22 — Rating 93

Formerly known as Blanc de Noir, this blend of Pinot Noir with a touch of Chardonnay for power and structure is a sumptuous beauty. Looking for manly bubbles? Here’s the answer. A robust sparkler, it should be considered not just a celebration in your flute but a food pairing wine as well. Again accolades abound, WE – 93 and WS -90.

Dec 282010
 
NV Napa Valley Sparkling Wine, Napa Valley, CA (S) $20 — Rating 93

The many accolades for Mumm Napa Brut Prestige are well deserved (WE 92 & WS 90) and a fantastic value at $20. A delicious blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir results in a beautiful layering of citrus, honey, melon and a touch of strawberry. May I have another glass, please?

Dec 282010
 
NV Russian River Valley Sparkling Wine, Healdsburg, CA (S) $30 — Rating 92

I love Pinot Noir Rosé sparkling wines and the J Brut Rosé is a real winner. A sexy pour of bright acidity combined with a kiss of black cherry, red apple and strawberry. The blend of 56% Pinot Noir and 44% Chardonnay is beautifully balanced from front to back.