Bubbly for Every Budget
No New Year’s celebration is complete without a bottle of bubbly. Ring in 2022 with any of these worthy options, many made outside the boundaries of Champagne.
Under $30
Queen of Kings, Moscatel Brut – NV $16.96
This unique sparkler from the southeast of Spain is made in the same style as top Champagnes, but with entirely different grapes and terroir. Moscatel, an aromatic white grape, adds to the floral nature of this elegant dry bottle of wine.
Mas Gomà, La Planta Brut – NV $21.96
The 60-year-old vines from this estate are producing some of the finest sparkling wines from the region known for Cava. Mas Gomà, however, is rejecting the label and putting out wines called simply, “Brut.” Pop this bottle to see what the new Spanish guard of innovative winemakers is up to.
Prosecco Extra Dry, Progettidivini – NV $29.96
Despite the “extra dry” on this label, the Prosecco inside is not so intensely dry on the palate. Fruity and floral, this would make an excellent accompaniment for fish or vegetable-based appetizers though it’s also thoroughly enjoyable drunk alone.
Under $50
Bianco Frizzante, “Steve”, Terrevive Glera Frizzante, Bisson – 2019 $35.96
Terrevive produces sparkling Pignoletto in a rich yet high-acid style. It has focused citrus aromas balanced by richness and a medium body that calls for salumi, cheese, and olives.
Franciacorta Extra Brut, Faccoli – NV $44.96
This extra brut is a late disgorgement, which means 3 years on the lees, dry, minerally, toasty, bright, citrus. Seriously good. If you’re into blind-tasting, this will undoubtedly be taken as a fine Champagne, but at a more approachable price point.
Paul Bara Grand Cru, Brut Reserve – NV $49.96
One expects great things from Grand Cru vineyards and Paul Bara certainly delivers. This blend of 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Chardonnay is rich and delicious with an elegant mousse, concentrated fruit aromas, and white strawberries on the palate.
Under $100
André Clouet Silver, Brut Nature – NV $51.96
The Clouets have been grower producers for more than a century. While being quite dry, the wine is not searing. It has lovely finesse and concentration and finishes with a punch of tangy minerals. An excellent match for lobster.
Liébart-Régnier “Horti” Blanc de Blancs, Extra Brut – NV $99.96
From the village of Vauciennes comes this Blanc de Blancs made from white grapes that hardly exist anymore in Champagne but were prevalent centuries ago: Arbanne, Petit Meslier, and Pinot Blanc. This is a Champagne for the connoisseur; the lover of wine who thinks they’ve tried it all.
Vazart-Coquart Blanc de Blancs “Spécial Club,” Grand Cru – 2013 $99.99
A top cuvée from a modest, older house that delivers sublime concentration and complexity and is vintage dated and meant to last for the ages. Mineraled precision makes one crave fresh oysters, topped with mignonette.
Above $100
Guy Larmandier, Grand Cru Cramant “Signé François” Blanc de Blancs – 2009 $104.96
A vintage Champagne to enjoy at the table or, if you’re patient, in many years to come. Dense fruit, including poached pear, figs, apples, and meyer lemon round out a palate of depth and breadth.