Tasted: Bubbles

We will not argue – if you love bubbles, champagne is hard to beat. But, there are alternatives to the super-pricey bottle. Less expensive champagnes are readily available, if you’re a die-hard fan of the French original. If you are willing to think a bit out of the box, a Crémant de Bourgogne, made from Pinot Noir, is a pretty close contender. Cava, from Spain, is made in the same “traditional method” as Champagne and is usually a little less expensive. If you would really like to try something different, a sparkling rosé, from the New World, may tempt your more adventurous palate.
Delamotte Brut Champagne
Reviewed by: Tony Aspler
Editor Rating: Excellent
$48
Champagne, France
Review Summary:
A terrific champagne for the price. Straw coloured with a bready, apple nose, medium-bodied, dry with lively citrus acidity and good length. Very satisfying.
Bailly-Lapierre Brut Pinot Noir Crémant de Bourgogne
Reviewed by: Gilles Bois
Editor Rating: Very Good
$24
Burgundy, France
Review Summary:
Very pale, tiny bubbles. Engaging nose of bread dough and delicate notes of white fruits. Clean taste, fruity and fresh. Light body; noticeable bitterness in the finish.
Castillo de Montblanc Brut Cava Reserva NV
Reviewed by: Ron Liteplo
Editor Rating: Excellent
$15
Spain
Review Summary:
Medium lemon yellow with tiny bubbles. The nose is of yeast, lemon, almond custard and even a hint of mango. Slightly sweet, it tastes of almonds and apple strudel with refreshing acidity and lots of fizz.
Rocky Creek Winery Jubilee Sparkling Rosé 2012
Reviewed by: Sean Wood
Editor Rating: Very Good
$24
Cowichan Valley, BC
Review Summary:
A blend of Pinot Gris with Pinot Noir showing citrus, red-berry and cherry flavours with rather vigorous mousse, pleasing creaminess and a fresh, crisp finish.
Miguel Torres Santa Digna Estelado Sparkling Brut Rosé
Reviewed by: Tony Aspler
Editor Rating: Very Good
$20
Curico, Chile
Review Summary:
Made from the Pais grape — the grape first planted by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century — this light pink sparkler has flavours of sour cherry and blood orange. It’s beautifully dry and refreshing.