Alternatives to Champagne
Prosecco Treviso, Extra Dry Spumante, Cornaro – NV $14.96
Bubbles make any occasion special. The pop of the cork and the shimmering of the bubbles kick it up a notch. You don’t have to spend a ton to get that effect, and this Prosecco will make it happen. Bright, fresh and easy to drink, this is a remarkably versatile wine. Apertif, with a meal, as a toast, mimosas and cocktails, this wine has got you covered. Cheers indeed. – Josh Mizrahi, Sales Manager
Frizzante Rosé “Prosa,” Meinklang – 2022 $16.96
Many natural winemakers believe that diversity in farming will contribute to healthy and happy vines. Meinklang is a two-generation family farm that raises livestock and grows grains and produce. Vines in this scenario tend to be happier and healthier, and bear fruit that make more vibrant wines. Prosa uses gently pressed Pinot Noir juice and natural winemaking techniques to produce this beauty. The wine is dry and has fine bubbles that tickle the palate. Enjoy as an aperitif on its own or with fresh berries. – Chung Park, Astor Wines & Sales Consultant
Bohigas, Cava Brut Reserva – NV $16.99
Cava has become a broad, varied category, and much depends on the producer. Bohigas has been family owned since the 13th century. They carefully grow and vinify the traditional grapes of Cava. Extended lees contact for 24 months and secondary fermentation in the bottle imparts richness, body, and a touch of toast. The impression is far from heavy, however, with vibrant aromas of Honeycrisp apples and lemon blossom and a brilliant streak of acidity on the palate. With its fine mousse, you could easily mistake this for a Blanc de Blancs Champagne…and then smile when you look at the price! – Doug Yacka, Operations Manager
Bodegas Vegamar “Privée 18”, Cava Brut Nature – NV $18.96
Bodega Vegamar was born in 1999. Situated in Valles, near Valencia on the mountains, the vineyards benefit both from the altitude and from the sea breeze. The vines are also surrounded by two rivers. All these components create a perfect microclimate environment for vine growing. This great Cava is a blend of Chardonnay and the local, indigenous grape Macabeo, which provides body and roundness to the wine. Chardonnay offers acidity and crispness. You can enjoy green apple flavors followed by white flowers and honey.The classic biscuit notes are also present because of the lees aging. Affordable and complete for any occasion! – Andrea Fraccari, Astor Wines & Spirits Consultant
Crémant de Bourgogne “Extra Brut”, Clotilde Davenne – NV $27.99
Clotilde Davenne’s Cremant is perfect to start off any type of gathering. It’s lean, lithe, and full of crisp energy. You’ll love the scents of green apple, white flowers, and brioche. The palate is creamy, loaded with minerals, and tinged with lemon-lime citrus, and green apples. The blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir has been aged for a year on lees with no added dosage. This is Astor’s third staff pick given to Ms. Davenne. Give this bottle a whirl and find out why we think she’s so great. – Chung Park, Astor Wines & Spirits Consultant
Schramsberg, Blanc de Noirs – 2020 $42.99
Schramsberg’s history dates back to the 19th century, when Jacob Schram first started his winery on Napa’s Diamond Mountain. Almost a century later, Jack and Jamie Davies would restore the estate to produce “America’s most prestigious, select and admired sparkling wine; chosen for special guests, special gifts, pampering one’s self and expressing one’s taste in unique products.” It has also played a role in history, for Nixon’s 1972 “Toast to Peace” with China’s Zhou Enlai, and has served at functions by every presidential administration since. On the nose, peach, apple, nectarine, and candied lemon. The palate opens with pear, lime sherbet, and touches of sugar cookie. Its bright acidity leads to a long, clean finish. I always have one in the fridge ready for impromptu celebrations like running into old friends, or, you know, Mondays. – Simon Gouldstone, Astor Wines & Spirits Consultant