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By Andrea Eby, Sommelier( ISG)
“ Vieni, vidi, VISA— I came, I saw, I did a little shopping.” They were grey suede with lilac trim and they winked at me from the window of the Ferragamo store in Siena. On closer inspection, the shoes were even more breathtaking, and unfortunately, so was the price. As I sat down to contemplate my predicament, I was reminded of a similar situation I often find myself in involving Champagne. Like good shoes, Champagne is finely crafted and comes with a hefty price tag. Most of us, however, cannot afford to wear designer shoes everyday, any more than we can afford to drink Champagne on a daily basis. So what’ s a girl to do? Just like finding a reproduction of the latest fashion trend, savvy shopping will bring success when it comes to finding a fantastic substitute for Champagne.
Winemakers around the world strive to replicate the razor-edged balance and complexity that define Champagne. The wines that come the closest are produced using the“ traditional method.” Northern Italy produces some very nice wines made by this method, one of the best being Franciacorta, a sparkling wine that echoes many of the flavours of Champagne. Another great option is to explore the many Crémants of France. These wines are made in the traditional method, but outside the boundaries of Champagne, and often make use of regional grape varieties. Spanish Cava can also be a great alternative. Usually made with indigenous Spanish grape varieties, the flavours can be different
A cause may be inconvenient, but it’ s magnificent. It’ s like champagne or high heels, and one must be prepared to suffer for it. – Arnold Bennett
than Champagne, but equally as delicious. New World producers are also coming on strong. Often their wines feature slightly riper fruit flavours, which may appeal to drinkers of predominately New World wines.
Aside from wines made in the traditional method, there is a second group of sparkling wines that deserves our attention. These wines all achieve their bubbles through a production technique known as the“ charmat method.” This method sees the asecond fermentation( the one that gives you all those bubbles) done in bulk, and therefore production costs are significantly reduced. These wines tend to emphasize fruit and do not display any of that brioche flavour that Champagne is renowned for. Most are refreshing, easydrinking, and extremely versatile. Some wines made by the charmat method, such as Prosecco, are crafted to retain a little of their natural grape sugars; if dry wines are not your thing, then a sparkling gem like
Moscato d’ Asti may be right up your alley. In fact, there are several sparkling variations of the delicious Muscat grape available that combine bubbles with intense fruit to create wines that are just plain yummy.
Not only is sparkling wine perfect for celebrations but it is almost unparalleled in its food-pairing capabilities, which is one reason I am happy to report that there are many budget-friendly options available.
Don’ t think for a second that I have given up Champagne. Take it from this savvy connoisseur: every once in a while you have to treat yourself to beautiful bubbles and fantastic shoes. � bubbles on a budget
Il Faggeto Prosecco, Vino Frizzante Veneto IGT $ 13.99
This gem balances orchard fruit flavours with lively acidity and less intense bubbles. Try it as an aperitif or as an integral part of the iconic Venetian cocktail, the Bellini.
Castellblanch, Extra Brut Cava Penedès, Spain $ 13.99
Three indigenous Spanish grape varieties were used to create this sparkler. Aromas of orchard fruit abound while the palate reveals hints of biscuit and brioche and a crisp, dry finish.
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