Liven up your holiday celebrations, and take your palate on a journey, with this trio of sensational sparkling wines from unexpected places!
Tasmania: Jansz Tasmania Premium Cuvée NV ($30)
A sparkling wine from Tasmania? Hmm, where exactly is Tasmania? These are just a few of the questions that went through my head when I saw this bottle of bubbly from Jansz. For the record, Tasmania is Australia’s only island state and its cool climatic conditions are similar to Champagne. Also, like Champagne, Jansz Premium Cuvée is made in the traditional method -- meaning that its bubbles are developed via a second fermentation in the bottle. However, instead of calling it Méthode Champenoise, they cheekily describe it as Méthode Tasmanoise. Method certainly matters but the proof is in the sip and Jansz is fresh and creamy with delicate bubbles and pretty flavors of strawberry from the Pinot Noir, soft citrus, and a tinge of vanilla. This off-the-beaten path and delicious bubbly is certain to captivate your guests!
Tuscany: Bibi Graetz “Bollamatta” Rosé Sparkling Wine ($26)
I love a winemaker with a sense of humor. Bollamatta means “crazy bubbles” in Tuscan slang and is another delicious example of Bibi Graetz’s knack for making wines that are unconventional without sacrificing quality. Tuscany may be best known for using the indigenous grape Sangiovese to make powerhouse red wines but Bollamata shows the grape’s flirty and playful side. Fruity with a touch of sweetness, Bollamatta is crafted from 100% organic Sangiovese grapes and has lively flavors of crisp red cherries, raspberries, strawberries, and a hint of peach.
Chile: Cono Sur Sparkling Brut ($17)
Talk about a wine that goes the distance! Cono Sur Sparkling Brut hails from one of the world’s most southern wine producing regions, the Bío-Bío Valley in Chile. Exuberant and super-crisp, the blend is primarily Chardonnay (95%) with a kiss of Pinot Noir (5%). With its bright flavors of green apple, lime, lemon, chamomile, and soft mint combined with impressive minerality; there’s an impressive structure and finesse in this well-priced sip from so very far away.
