When shopping for New Year’s Eve, don’t mindlessly reach for that boring bottle of Prosecco. This trio will toast 2013 in style.
When shopping for New Year’s Eve, don’t mindlessly reach for that boring bottle of Prosecco. This trio will toast 2013 in style.
Freixenet Carta Nevada Cava, $11.95—a.k.a. Pour man’s Champagne!
From Spain’s Penèdes region, north of Barcelona, Cava is bottle-fermented a la méthode champenoise. It’s a slam-dunk with sushi.
Ponce notes: “Nothing fancy here: simple, refreshing, zesty, everything Cava should be. At this price, you don’t have to wait for a special occasion to pop the cork.”
LCBO #216887
Domaine de Clos de L’Epinay Tête de Cuvée Brut Vouvray 2007, $19.95
Sparkling wine from France’s Loire Valley, like this one, is made from Chenin Blanc. Try with stuffed mushroom caps.
Ponce notes: “A bouquet of apple sauce and forest fungi reveals the wine’s quirky character. While it’s no quaffer, it offers considerable depth for the price, with a creamy mousse, firm acidity, and lemony finish”
LCBO #298398
Blue Mountain Brut, $27.95
From BC’s Okanagan Valley, this bottle is made from a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and a small percentage of Pinot Gris. Pour with raw oysters.
Ponce notes: “This label is a popular house sparkler at better BC restaurants. With peachy flavours, tight bubbles and mouth-watering acidity, it’s as lean and fetching as a yoga instructor.”
LCBO #206326
