Earlier and Earlier
I know it’s only mid-October, but according to wine producers and the mainly-monopolies that run this country’s wine system, ‘Tis the Season.
Yup, the season for gift giving and celebrations is getting close and the gearing up has begun (it seems to get earlier and earlier every year): Halloween is just around the corner, next stop is American Thanksgiving, Black Friday and then it’s a straight shot to Christmas.
Having just been to a sparkling wine tasting (‘Tis the Season) I present you with some of my top picks from the wines that were available … more holiday ideas to come in the next couple of months.
Piper-Hiedsieck Brut, Champagne, France ($54.95)
Exactly what you think of when you think of Champers: bready, biscuity with a lovely sweetness of fruit and acid balance.
Taittinger Brut Reserve, Champagne, France ($62.95)
Brioche qualities, like a liquefied flaky croissant, but adds lemon and green apple into the mix for something to brace your tongue against.
Cono Sur Sparkling Pinot Noir Rose, Chile ($13.90)
One can not live on Champagne alone (though it would be nice) that’s where this Cono Sur value comes in – the acidity mixes with raspberry, cherry and a lingering finish; pretty and worth the price; the Brut is also pretty awesome.
Angels Gate Handsome Brut, Ontario, Canada ($24.95)
There are plenty more sparklers from Ontario that are wonderful, but none match a cutesy name with the seriousness of the wine in bottle. Nice lemon, lime and apple match beautifully with the toastiness.