Cold weather calls for a change in how sparkling wines are enjoyed. A crisp glass of bubbly makes for an equally good sip, whether it’s patio season or holiday season!
Winter has no shortage of moments worth celebrating, and sparkling wine remains a natural choice for the season. When it’s chilly outside, sparkling wine’s purpose shifts from providing cool refreshment to adding balance and depth to heartier dishes and more intimate occasions.
Versatile and Approachable – Sun Goddess Prosecco
One high note is this collaboration between Fantinel Winery and Grammy-winning singer Mary J. Blige. A prime choice for winter meal pairings, this straw-yellow Prosecco is crafted from Glera grapes grown on the Friuli upper plain in Northern Italy. It’s velvety and creamy with notes of apple, peach, and pear accented by flavors of citrus and honeysuckle.
Pair with shellfish, seafood, salads, and cured meats.
Vibrant and Layered – Iron Horse 2021 Harvest Moon
This pale rosé is crafted with chilly evenings in mind. Its delicate pink hue comes from blending Iron Horse estate Chardonnay with a touch of Pinot Noir, and makes for a unique take on a Blanc de Blancs with an interesting contrast in aromas and taste. The nose is defined by welcoming notes of spiced apple tart, mixed berries, and baking spice, while those on the palate come alive with yuzu citrus and juicy mulberry.
Pair with goat cheese dishes or sushi.
Traditional and Elegant – Domaine Barnaut Le Chemin des Goësses Premier Extra Brut
This classic bottle of bubbles is the first vintage from Guillaume Secondé – sixth generation of Maison Barnaut. This Champagne has a captivating golden hue, a rich, vibrant texture, and a lingering saline finish. Aromas of citrus candies, white flowers, almonds, anise, and flint greet the nose. The palate is taut and fresh with white fruit and citrus flavors.
Pair with hummus, seafood, roasted poultry, and lemon desserts.
Age-Worthy and Sumptuous – Domaine Egly-Ouriet Grand Cru Extra Brut NV
This grower Champagne is crafted from a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the Montagne de Reims. Fourth-generation producer Francis Egly attributes this wine’s complexity and structure not to perfect fruit alone but to the extended lees aging. Aromatic layers of baked apple, cherry, chalky minerality, peach, fig, sea spray, and brioche add remarkable depth, further revealed on the palate by the wine’s lively acidity and enduring bubbles.
Pair with lobster, roasted poultry, aged cheeses, and baked fruit desserts.
Sophisticated and Fresh – Piper Sonoma Brut
This refined sparkling wine is crafted primarily from 70% Chardonnay, complemented by 20% Pinot Noir, 7% aged reserve, and touched off with 3% Pinot Blanc. The bouquet is bright and inviting, with pleasant aromas of citrus, crisp apple, and light orange blossom. The wine is full-flavored with vibrant green apple and mandarin orange notes on the palate, and the crisp acidity is carried through to a dry, lingering finish.
Pair with crab cakes, shrimp, and sushi.
