Jaume Serra Cristalino Brut Cava/Rose’ Spain – Here’s your party wine, great ratings $9/10
Segura Viudas Reserve Brut – Shows very well as one of several terrific Spanish “Cava’s” $8/9
Roederer Estate NV, Mendocino – ’91 points Wine Spectator, “Best Sparkling wine for $20” (WSJ
Roederer Estate Brut Rose NV, Mendocino – Lovely bright fruit, $26
Mont Farrant 2010 Brut Reserva – Can’t go wrong with vintage Cava for $16
JBC No. 21 Brut NV, Burgundy– A most interesting depth of flavor from a wine region not known for sparkling, $19
JBC N69 Brut Rose’ NV 1.5L, Burgundy – Truly an interesting wine and a Rose’ too in my favorite larger format, can’t wait until NYE, $49
Pol Roger Brut 2004, Reims – If you are considering this price range you will find it worth your while to experience this wonderful example of vintage, house Champagne, $100
Barons de Rothschild Blanc de Blanc, NV – And to make your decision even more difficult in this price range you can enjoy a breath-taking first effort from the great Bordeaux wine maker, $115
I suggest these wines for your holiday meals and parties. The wines are available in the Chicago market and many of the major brands should be available in other larger metro areas too.
Dry Creek 2013 Fume’ Blanc (Sauvignon Blanc) Sonoma – Meyer lemon, lime, fresh citrus and grassy characters are immediately evident with flavors of underlying minerals, wet stone and a nice core of acidity. R 89 $11.00
Gruet Blanc de Noirs NV– New Mexico – The rich and toasty character of the Blanc de Noirs is balanced and superb and shows rich complex flavors. R 90 $15.00
2013 Lucky Star Pinot California Cuvee, 90% Pinot with a bit of Zinfandel and Merlot, $8
Parducci Small Lot Blend Pinot Noir -70% Mendocino County, 30% Sierra Foothills – Aromas of juicy, ripe raspberries and strawberries are full and rich on the palate, picking up a hint of cedar in the finish. $10
2012 Cambria Julia’s Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley – Very earthy with a lot of mushroom Depth and great fruit flavor. $18
2013 Columbia Crest “H3” Horse Heaven Hills Cabernet Sauvignon – Great wine from a terrific area of Washington state $11
2013 Pierano Immortal Zinfandel, Lodi – Not a scary big zin but a real crowd pleaser, easy to drink and will go with most anything, my current house wine, $9/10