After much consideration and preparation – we have finalized the sparkling wines for the Grapenuts Holiday Big Bubbly Blowout at Braddock’s American Brasserie (at the Pittsburgh Renaissance Hotel downtown Pittsburgh, Tuesday December 6, 6-9pm) – the list is below.
As a special enticement, the foods will be paired to the sparklers, the bubbles will be flowing in the glass AND in the air (this is a secret that no one knows about unless they read this blog!!!)
Here are the fantastic choices:
Spain – Jaume Serra CRISTALINO Brut Cava – Made from traditional Spanish Cava grapes Macabeo, Parellada and Xarel·lo, Cristalino is light to medium bodied with apple and citrus flavors. Rated 88 points by The Wine Enthusiast
Italy – Zardetto Private Cuvee NV – Fruity and friendly, this Prosecco-like sparkler has extra body and flavor imparted by 30% Chardonnay added into the traditional blend. Flavors of peach, apple and pear are followed by a soft finish. Rated 86 points by The Wine Advocate
France – Caves de Mancey Cremant de Bourgogne NV – Sophisticated and complex. Produced using the same method as Champagne, using the same grapes (mainly Chardonnay with some Pinot Noir). This wine is tightly wound with Champagne-like intensity and an undercurrent of yeast and biscuit flavors.
Australia – Bleasdale Red Brute Sparkling Shiraz Langhorne Creek NV – Can YOU handle the ‘Brute’??? This unusual sparkler is full of rich cherry and berry flavors that finish deceptively dry. Rated 90 points by Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
South Africa – Graham Beck Brut NV – South African Splendor! This Methode Cap Classique is made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir that deliver light fruity notes over a creamy texture and finish. Rated 89 points Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar
USA – Schramsberg Mirabelle Brut Rose NV – Delicate rose colored wine with lush, rich flavors of strawberry and raspberry followed by some spicy notes on the finish. Rated 93 points by The Wine Spectator
France – Taittinger Brut “La Francaise” Champagne NV – This is it!! Quintessential Champagne – Made from a blend of 40% Chardonnay and 60% Pinot Noir. This Complex, rich and creamy Champagne starts with bread, mineral, earthy and red fruit notes followed by a delicate, crisp, yeasty finish.
Jack Brice Wine 