Seeking Bubbly Bliss

I have a 'relationship issue.'  My schnook-ums isn't too fond of bubbly containing a majority of white grapes (like Chardonnay).  The problem with this is that most bubblies I usually drink - Cava, Champagne, and sparkling wine contain a right good bit of Chardonnay or other white grapes.  When I go to my local (state run) wine shop, I can only find 3-5 blanc de noirs or rosé bubblies, which are primarily Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier (the two classic red Champagne grapes).  A poorly made bubbly with these grapes tastes heavy, flabby, and sometimes, oddly metallic.  In other words, "Not good."

But then when I bring home an outrageously elegant bubbly like Salon le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs (all Chardonnay), my honey says, "Ewww. Too tart!"

So the other day I was determined to find a good bubbly made from red grapes.  Lo and behold, I found a dusty little bottle of Schramsberg Blanc de Noirs, 1997 ($30).

The Skinny
Schramsberg Blanc de Noirs, 1997 ($30)

• From Napa Valley, Calif.
• A great, unique color; light copper/apricot with a small, fine bubble-bead
• Rich scents of peaches, honey, cherries, and almonds
• Medium bodied with blanc-de-noirs-saving crispness to preserve balance.  A mature bubbly with a marathon finish

**** (4 stars out of 5)

Sip this bubbly by itself and learn to love the Blanc de Noirs.  Also terrific with darn near anything on your dinner plate.  And if you can't find the Old '97, the 2001 vintage is also very good.

Comments

[Lenn]

I'm glad to see that more and more people are drinking bubbly for more and more occasions (or for no occasion at all!).

It's great with food...most any food. I need to experiment more myself...though I usually only find the "standard" bubblies around here...pricey French or Korbel.

Again I'm reminded why I need to find a new wine shop.