Tag Archives: italian sparkling wine

December Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubThe diver bubble club bottle with bowDays of Youth
The Diver
Sparkling Brut
California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Diver Brut is part of Days of Youth’s California sparkling wine series. It is a blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Gewürztraminer. The Chardonnay presents lemon custard, grapefruit, apple, and citrus flavors with a soft, creamy foundation. The Sauvignon Blanc adds a bright acidity that gives a lively note with a hint of peach/apricot. The Gewürztraminer adds a beautiful floral character of jasmine, especially in the nose, and a hint of chalky mineral on the palate. Made in the Charmat method, the wine has about two bars of pressure creating a soft, Prosecco-like texture, which makes it easier and more enjoyable to drink. Enjoy with salty and spicy flavors, shellfish, salads, Thai cuisine, or even by itself.

Varietal: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Gewürztraminer
Analysis: 11.8% alcohol/volume
Residual Sugar: 1 g/L
Winemaker: Gregory Ahn
Illustrator: Abigail Ahn
Critical Acclaim: 86 pts Wine Enthusiast 2019

The Diver bubbly club wine bottle with bowDays of Youth
The Diver
Sparkling Brut Rosé
California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Diver Brut Rosé is part Days of Youth’s California sparkling wine series. It is a dry Rosé wine made from a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. The Chardonnay from Monterey County adds a balanced acidity with notes of honeysuckle and kiwi. The Pinot Noir adds a beautiful color. Made in the Charmat method, the wine has about two bars of pressure creating a soft, prosecco-like texture, which makes it easier and more enjoyable to drink. A wine that pairs with just about anything except the boldest of flavors. This wine is best enjoyed chilled.

Varietal: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay
Analysis: 12.8% alcohol/volume
Residual Sugar: 1.1 g/L
Winemaker: Gregory Ahn
Illustrator: Abigail Ahn
Critical Acclaim: 83pts Wine Enthusiast 2019

ABOUT DAYS OF YOUTH:
Days of Youth is inspired by the magical spirit of imagination and the endless possibilities the world offers when you are a kid. The team behind this wine believes that wine brings these same possibilities as well as a youthful sense of joy and freedom to life. They bring that same freedom to winemaking by sourcing grapes based on quality and character, not appellation. They believe anything should be possible in the world of wine. They only categories they want to be in are delicious and fun. Learn more here.

Information & Photos © Days of Youth – All Rights Reserved.

Da Lua Prosecco wine bottleDa Luca
Sparkling Prosecco DOC
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Da Luca Prosecco is a bright, easy-drinking sparkling wine that reflects the character of Italy’s Veneto region. Made from Glera grapes grown in selected areas of the Prosecco DOC, it shows a pale straw hue and opens with notes of green apple, pear and soft floral tones, along with a light touch of citrus. The palate is clean and refreshing, offering crisp fruit, gentle acidity and a fine, steady sparkle. It works well as an aperitif or for casual celebrations, and it complements everything from seafood to simple starters, making it a flexible choice for many settings.

Varietal: Glera
Analysis: 11% alcohol/volume
Critical Acclaim: 86 pts Wine Enthusiast 2019; 90pts Wine Enthusiast 2023

ABOUT DA LUCA:
The home of Da Luca is in Sicily, Italy. Nothing captures the Sicilian spirit and vibrancy better than Scopa.  Played by families after dinner and growers amongst the vines, this lively, local card game was the perfect inspiration for their label.  Da Luca works with grape growers in Northern Italy to create their finest Prosecco.

Information & Photos © Da Luca Wines and Wine on Sale – All Rights Reserved.

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March Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine Clubthe-duckhorn-portfolio-decoy-brut-cuvee-sparkling-wine-LCVBTBDecoy Brut Cuvée Sparkling Wine California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE
The debut Decoy Brut Cuvée is an enticing sparkling wine that offers alluring layers of baked apple, white peach and orange zest, as well as aromatic hints of honeysuckle and vanilla. On the palate, a delicate sweetness is perfectly balanced by bright acidity, which adds poise and energy to the lush, pure fruit flavors. The Brut Cuvée is crafted in the méthode champenoise tradition to ensure that your special moments truly sparkle.

Varietal: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume Varietal-Composition-DuckhornpH: 3.00-3.20 Acidity: 0.7-0.9 g/100 ml Residual Sugar: 7 g/L Dosage: 0.5-1.0 g/dL Method: Méthode Champenoise (also know as the traditional method. The key element to this process is a secondary fermentation in the bottle) Fermentation & Aging: Dosaged with French oak barrel fermented Napa Valley Chardonnay Varietal Contributions:

  • Pinot Noir: Enhances body, structure & complexity
  • Chardonnay: Brightness, freshness, minerality, elegance
  • Pinot Meunier: Floral aromatics & rich, fruit flavors
About Duckhorn Portfolio: From its inaugural vintage in 1985 by legendary vintners Dan and Margaret Duckhorn as the companion label to Duckhorn Vineyards, Decoy has evolved to the perfect and comprehensive entry-level luxury brand for the entire Duckhorn Portfolio. It is a collaboration of all Duckhorn Portfolio winemakers that produces high-quality wines at remarkable prices. Its fruit is sourced from distinguished grower and estate vineyards, making approachable yet complex wines that are ready upon release. Learn more here. 
Information & Photos © Decoy & Duckhorn Winery – All Rights Reserved

LAM_Luminore_750MLLa Marca Luminore Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. Brut Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE
La Marca’s finest sparkling wine. Hailing from the sun-drenched hills of Italy’s highest wine destination, Luminore is part of a prestigious segment of Proseccos with the designation D.O.C.G., meaning it’s one of Italy’s finest wines. Luminore sparkles with a pale, golden straw hue and lively bubbles, bursting in the glass. Delicate aromas of white flowers and stone-fruits complement the soft, creamy-texture. Subtle hints of fresh citrus, pear and nectarine round out the exquisite palate. Clean, crisp acidity balances a touch of sweetness and offers a light and refreshing style.

Varietal: Prosecco Pairing Suggestions: Perfect for any occasion. Savor it as an aperitif or pair it with flavorful dishes like grilled herb-seasoned chicken, tender pork, or an Italian-inspired dessert like panna cotta brightened with a twist of lemon zest.

Winery Notes: Luminore Prosecco Superiore begins with hand-selected Glera grapes from the iconic hillside vineyards of Conegliano Valdobbiadene, the crown jewel of Prosecco D.O.C.G. After harvest, the grapes are gently crushed and pressed to capture their bright, fresh character. The juice is carefully cold-settled before its first fermentation in stainless-steel tanks, where temperatures are expertly maintained between 59–64°F. To elevate its elegance, the wine rests on its lees, building layers of complexity before the final fermentation creates its signature refined finish.
About La Marca: Founded in 1968, La Marca has dedicated itself to serving as an ambassador for Prosecco and the Veneto region to the world, representing 5,000 local growers who share a pride and passion for growing Prosecco and sharing their exceptional sparkling wines with the world. Their wine region, just a one-hour drive from Venice, boasts views of the Adriatic Sea on one side and the Dolomite mountains on the other. La Marca brings a welcome taste of La Dolce Vita through lively sparkling wines, warm Italian hospitality, and approachable style. Learn more here. bottle of La Marca on a wine cart with glass of spritz and lemonsAmici Spritz Cocktail Recipe Toast the upcoming celebration of Spring with this Prosecco cocktail. Perfect for sharing with your besties, this spritz blends bubbly with the crisp notes notes of gin, all kissed with zesty lemon and a touch of sweetness from the honey syrup. Whether you’re lounging with friends or enjoying a sunny spring day at the lake, the Amici Spritz is the ideal way to spritz things up.  So grab your favorite glass, mix up this refreshing recipe, and enjoy every sip! Cin cin!
Ingredients:
  • 3 oz. La Marca Prosecco
  • 1 ½ oz. Gin
  • ¾ oz. lemon juice
  • ¾ oz honey syrup
Directions: Muddle the lemon slices and shake all ingredients except La Marca. Strain into a spritz glass while simultaneously pouring in your Prosecco. Garnish your gin cocktail with a lemon slice.
Information & Photos © La Marca – All Rights Reserved
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February Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubHeart-Argyle-winery-vintage-brut-2019-bottleArgyle
Vintage Brut
Willamette Valley, Oregon

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Golden apple and Anjou Pear flavors influenced by Knudsen Vineyard fruit add to the natural weight and brightness, while vanilla and toasted cake crust sneak into the flavor mix, adding to the opulence of this blend.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 63% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir, 7% Pinot Meunier
Clones:

  • Pinot Noir: Dijon clones: 777, 667, 115 and Pommard
  • Chardonnay: Dijon clones 95, 76, 96
  • Pinot Meunier: Clone 1

Appellation: Willamette Valley, Oregon
Total Acidity: 8.9 g/L
pH: 3.05
Dosage: 2.5 g/L
Dosage Vehicle: Chardonnay
Brix at Harvest: 18.5
Fermentation: Cold fruit was gently pressed and racked into 25% Neutral Barrel, 75% stainless steel tank for fermentation and aging on the lees
Tirage: 4 years en tirage for freshness and disgorged on demand
Cases: 19,479
Critical Acclaim:

  • 2019: 92 pts – Wine Spectator
  • 2019: 91 pts – Wine Enthusiast
  • 2019: 90 pts – James Suckling

Vineyards:
Argyle farms four estate vineyards with nearly 500 acres in the Willamette Valley, with the majority in the Eola-Amity Hills and Dundee Hills nested AVAs.

Viticulture:
Regenerative farming encourages the symbiotic relationship between the earth and the vine in tandem with the development of habitats for native flora and fauna. The results from their sustainable and responsible practices includes healthier soils, energetic vineyards and fruit.

© Argyle Winery - Winemaker, Nate Klostermann

© Argyle Winery – Winemaker, Nate Klostermann

About the Winemaker:
Nate Klostermann is the 2nd winemaker in Argyle’s 35-year history and has emerged as one of Oregon’s most gifted winemakers. He currently celebrates nearly two decades at Argyle and continues to say he “landed in a good spot” when he arrived at Argyle to work his first harvest. With his fine-tuned winemaking skills and passion for Oregon wine, Nate is now recognized for making elegant and complex sparkling wines along with vibrant and impeccably balanced Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Meunier.

About the Winery:
Founded in 1987 as Oregon’s sparkling wine house, Argyle quickly stood out as a study in contrasts – honoring the deep traditions of wine and embracing innovation and experimentation; proud to be Oregonian and pulling knowledge from winemakers around the world. When common knowledge said a winery could produce great sparkling wine or great still wine Argyle asked “why not both?”, answering the question with acclaimed still and sparkling wines. Argyle is the only winery in the world to be named to Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list for Sparkling, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Deeply established in the Willamette Valley, yet young at heart, Argyle is led by stand-out winemaker Nate Klostermann, and innovative viticulturist Geoff Hall, who work together to explore and expand the possibilities of modern winemaking. Together they create world-class still and sparkling wines from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier, and Riesling. Learn more here.

Additional Accolades:

  • #1 Selling Sparkling Wine from Willamette Valley
  • Top 10 Selling Domestic Luxury Sparkling House
  • Oregon’s Best-known Champagne-Method Sparkling Wine House – Wall Street Journal
Photo and Information © Argyle Winery – All Rights Reserved

Heart-Santa-Margherita-rose-brut-bubbly-bottleSanta Margherita
Sparkling Rosé
Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Whether served at the beginning of a beautiful evening for two, or sipped throughout a lively meal with friends, this celebrated bubbly is an aromatic and vibrant treasure that is meant to be shared time and time again.

This pale pink wine brings a full bouquet of pleasing floral aromas with hints of red berries. It is artfully crafted with a blend of Glera and Chardonnay grapes with Malbec as the red varietal that lends its perfect light pink color. Its flavor is delicate, but vibrant and well-rounded. Santa Margherita Sparkling Rosé is an approachable wine that lingers on the palate; good for any occasion as an accompaniment to brunch, desserts, antipasti, seafood or intensely flavored Asian cuisines.

Analysis: 11.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 55% Glera, 40% Chardonnay, 5% Malbec
Sugar Content: 8.3 g/750ml
Aspect & Elevation: 1-1,150 feet above sea level
Soil Type: Fluvial (Chardonnay), Morainic (Glera), Fluvial and Lagoon (Malbec)
Vine Training System: Guyot (Chardonnay), Sylvoz/double Guyot (Glera), Spurred cordon (Malbec)
Planting Density: 3,500-4000 vines per acre (Chardonnay), 1,215 – 1,415 vines per acre (Glera), 2,105 per vines acre (Malbec)
Harvest Period: Second half of September
Serving Temperature: 42º-46ºF
Recommended Glass: Medium-sized tulip-shaped, narrowing towards the rim
Aging Potential: Meant to be enjoyed fresh
Food Pairings: Tasty, aromatic apéritif, and an exciting companion for your food explorations: savory Italian appetizers, complex seafood dishes, and spicy, exotic Asian cuisines. It also brings a delightful sparkle to a festive brunch or your favorite rich dessert. Or enjoy with this recipe for Strawberries with Vanilla Mascarpone and Balsamic Drizzle.

Technical Information:
The blending of a fine Sparkling Rosé wine is a delicate art, and Santa Margherita is proud to share this masterpiece. They start with a white wine made from the Glera grapes used to produce Prosecco, then add Chardonnay and a small amount of Malbec to add color and richness. This tantalizing blend undergoes a month-long second fermentation followed by six months of maturation in pressurized tanks. Only then is this dry, sparkling wine ready to serve and enjoy.

The Bottle:
Featuring their family crest, the new clear glass bottle offers a fresh, contemporary look, while showcasing the lush, gorgeous color of their Sparkling Rosé. The updated label, reminiscent of Venetian design, proudly celebrates their Italian heritage. 

Did you Know?

  1. The Coat of Arms of the Marzotto family is on the neckband of every bottle of the delicious Sparkling Rosé. In 1935, the Marzotto family founded Santa Margherita, and it has been contributing to the international success of premium quality Italian wine for over 80 years.
  2. Santa Margherita loves the bees: they avoid cutting the grass between the rows of vines while the grapes are growing to protect the work of bees and other pollinating insects.
  3. Santa Margherita is vegan-friendly and has eliminated the use of all animal by-products during filtration.
  4. Santa Margherita recycles grape skins, which further reduces waste.

Santa Marghertia historic mansion

About the Winery:
Santa Margherita Winery, founded in 1935 in Italy’s Veneto region, is a pioneer in crafting elegant, approachable wines that celebrate the essence of Italian winemaking. The winery combines innovation with a deep respect for tradition and sustainability. With vineyards spanning some of Italy’s most prestigious regions, Santa Margherita produces a diverse portfolio of wines, each reflecting the unique character of its terroir. Dedicated to quality, heritage, and environmental responsibility, Santa Margherita continues to bring people together through the timeless pleasure of great wine. Learn more here.

Photo and Information © Santa Margherita – All Rights Reserved

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October Bubbly Club Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubAvissi-prosecco-bottleAvissi
Prosecco DOC
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Avissi Prosecco is clean and bright, a crisp sparkler with soft, elegant bubbles that flutter in the glass, giving a lovely effervescence to each sip. A beautiful balance of heady floral notes and luscious fruit makes it imminently approachable. It’s the perfect wine to take-out after work or all dressed up on a Saturday night. Or, somewhere in between (hello, Sunday brunch). Drink on its own, or try it in a boozed up cocktail! See recipe below…

Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Glera
Total Acidity: 5.8 g/L
Residual Sugar: 14.8 g/L
Critical Acclaim:

  • 92 points – “Scents of honeysuckle and gardenia are sweet and delicate. The melting bubbles perform gracefully, accenting flavors of linen and orange cream. White rice and Asian pear dot the mid-palate and the finish is redolent of green apple. The liquid is as unique as this wine’s memorable packaging.” – Meredith May, Tasting Panel Magazine

Avissi’s Sugar & Spice Cocktail:
Just in time for fall! The balance of sweetness with a kick of spice will offer a flavorful profile, perfect for cooler weather.

sugar-and-spice
  • INGREDIENTS:
    • .75 oz Cranberry Vodka
    • .75 oz Apple Spice Ginger Liqueur
    • .75 oz Fresh Pressed Apple Juice
    • Avissi Prosecco
  • DIRECTIONS:
    1. Combine Cranberry Vodka, Ginger Liqueur and Apple Juice in a shaker
    2. Fill tin 2/3 with ice, cap, and shake vigorously
    3. Strain into a champagne flute
    4. Top with Avissi Prosecco
    5. Garnish with whole cranberries
About Avissi Winery:
Avissi Wines produces elegant Prosecco crafted from hand-selected Glera grapes grown in the Veneto region of Italy. Known for its light style and delicate bubbles, Avissi’s Prosecco is made using the Charmat method and small-batch fermentation in concrete tanks. The wine captures the essence of fresh fruit and floral notes, reflecting the heritage of the Prosecco DOC. Inspired by Italian art and architecture, Avissi’s attention to detail is evident both in its winemaking process and the design of its bottle. Learn more here.
 

Photo and Information © Avissi Wines – All Rights Reserved

Francis-Ford-Coppola-diamond-prosecco-bottleFrancis Ford Coppola Winery
Diamond Prosecco
Prosecco DOC, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Introducing a sparkling new member of the Diamond Collection: Diamond Prosecco! Imported directly from the Prosecco DOC in Italy, the Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Prosecco is crafted from select grapes grown in northeastern Italy, between the Adriatic Sea and the Dolomite Mountains. It has flavors of apple, citrus and white peach. Enjoy on its own, with a meal, or as an aperitif. Saluté to every day!

Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Glera
Region: Prosecco DOC

Vineyard Notes:
The Prosecco DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) is located in Northeast Italy, and home to its namesake sparkling wine. The region’s location provides unique geographical features and microclimates that enhance the wine’s flavors.

Francis-Ford-Coppola-rose-bottleFrancis Ford Coppola Winery
Diamond Collection Prosecco Rosé
Prosecco DOC, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Introducing a sparkling new member of the Diamond Collection: Diamond Prosecco Rosé! Imported directly from the Prosecco DOC in Italy, the Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Prosecco Rosé is crafted from select grapes grown in the northeastern region, between the Adriatic Sea and the Dolomite Mountains. Best served chilled, this sparkling import features flavors of strawberry, cherry and citrus. Pairs perfectly with your favorite appetizer or fresh salad. Saluté to every day!

Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Varietal: Blend

Vineyard Notes:
The Prosecco DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) is located in Northeast Italy, and home to its namesake sparkling wine. The region’s location provides unique geographical features and microclimates that enhance the wine’s flavors.

About Francis Ford Coppola Winery:
The Francis Ford Coppola Winery, located in Sonoma County, blends winemaking with a family-friendly experience, inspired by Coppola’s vision of a “pleasure garden” reminiscent of Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen. The winery is celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and high-quality wines, including their Diamond Collection Prosecco Rosé and Diamond Prosecco, both from the prestigious Prosecco DOC in Italy. These sparkling wines reflect the craftsmanship and innovation of the Coppola team, offering a fresh, elegant take on traditional Prosecco. Learn more here.
 

Photo and Information © Francis Ford Coppola Winery – All Rights Reserved

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September Bubbly Club Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubCDB-Cuvee-Prestige-bottleCa’del Bosco
Cuvée Prestige Brut
Franciacorta, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Aromas of stone fruit and spring flowers with a lightly savory, pastry like complexity. The palate has a smooth, elegant feel and the finish is dry, light, bright and crisp. A neat wine, well-delivered. Drink now.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 75% Chardonnay, 10% Pinot Bianco, 15% Pinot Nero
Region: Franciacorta, Lombardy, Italy
ph: 3.15
Total Acidity: 5.55 grams/liter
Volatile Acidity: 0.35 grams/liter
Vineyards of Provenance:

  • 96 Chardonnay vineyards planted on average of 27 years ago, located in the municipalities of Erbusco, Adro, Cazzago San Martino, Corte Franca, Iseo and Passirano
  • 3 Pinot Bianco vineyards planted an average of 21 years ago, located in the municipality of Passirano
  • 17 Pinot Nero vineyards planted an average of 19 years ago, located in the municipalities of Erbusco, Provaglio d’Iseo and Passirano

Harvest period: First and second ten days of August
Average yield per hectare: 7,500 kilograms of grapes, equivalent to 4,7300 liters of wine (must-to-fruit ratio 63%)
Tirage: From April to June of the year after the harvest
Maturation sur lies: For an average of 25 months
Dosage at disgorgement: Equivalent to four grams of sugar per liter

Vinification:
The base wines for Cuvée Prestige are crafted from meticulously selected grapes, expertly vinified in strict adherence to the Metodo Ca’ del Bosco. Upon harvest, the grapes are picked, graded, and chilled, each bunch undergoing careful selection by trained professionals before being processed through an exclusive “berry spa.” This system involves a thorough bunch washing and jet spray process, incorporating three soaking vats and a drying tunnel. The grapes are then crushed in an oxygen-free environment, and the resulting musts are fermented in temperature-controlled steel tanks until the following March.

The wine undergoes an additional seven months of aging to clarify, mature, and reveal the distinct characteristics of its vineyard origin. Subsequently, the wines are meticulously blended with reserve wines from the best vintages, accounting for 20% to 30% of the final cuvée, in a process that imparts the Cuvée Prestige with its unique character. This special technique captures the essence of Franciacorta as envisioned by Ca’ del Bosco. Only after an average maturation period of 25 months does this Franciacorta reach its full expressive depth. The disgorgement process is performed in an oxygen-free environment, utilizing a patented system by Ca’ del Bosco that eliminates oxidative stress and the need for additional sulfites. This process results in a purer, more appealing, and longer-lived Franciacorta. Finally, each bottle is individually marked to ensure traceability.

About Ca’del Bosco:
Ca’del Bosco, founded by Annamaria Clementi Zanella in the Erbusco hills, has a rich history of innovation and quality in winemaking. Beginning with high-density vineyards and the production of its first wine (Pinot di Franciacorta Bianco) in the late 1970s, the winery expanded under Maurizio Zanella to introduce notable offerings like the Cuvée Annamaria Clementi, named after his mother. Embracing modern techniques while maintaining its identity, Ca’del Bosco produces acclaimed wines, including the Vintage Collection and Cuvée Prestige. The winery also promotes art through initiatives like the Ca’del Bosco Sculpture Award, celebrating over 50 years of heritage and excellence in winemaking. Learn more here.

Photo and Information © Iron Horse Vineyards and Vintus – All Rights Reserved

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February Bubbly Club Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubBodkin-Sparkling_Sauvignon_Blanc_bottle-bowBodkin Wines
Sparkling Sauvignon Blanc
Lake County, California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

With overtones of pineapple, guava and lemon-lime, this wine is a bright, fruit forward and as “Sauvignon Blanc-y” as ever.  The palate matches the nose and the 2 g/L dosage (0.2%) is just enough flair to make this wine down right quaffable. This Cuvée is a blend of two Sauvignon Blanc vineyards in Kelseyville and 22% from Sandy Bend vineyard in Upper Lake. Both vineyards are farmed to California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance standards and family owned and operated. Diligent stewards of the earth and salt of the earth people, the Springer and Schlies families are not just growers but true friends of Bodkin Wines. 

About the Winery:
Founded in 2011 by journeyman cellar hand and self-taught Winemaker Chris Christensen, Bodkin Wines disrupted the sparkling wine scene with America’s first sparkling Sauvignon Blanc in 2012. With one foot rooted in wine science and the other in craftsmanship, Christensen’s minimalist philosophy guides his signature style of high acid, low alcohol wines. These wines have garnered over two dozen 90+ point scores in critical reviews over the past 8 years alone. Learn more here.

Photo and Information © Bodkin Wines – All Rights Reserved

stella-rosa-gold-prosecco-bottle-bowStella Rosa
Gold V.S. Prosecco DOC
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Gold V.S. Prosecco DOC starts with specially selected grapes grown in the beautiful vineyards of the Veneto region in Italy. This area has a very special microclimate characterized by high temperature variations between day and night during the summer. This environment is crucial to achieve perfect ripening of the grapes and give the wine a breathtaking structure and harmony, in which acidy and minerality are perfectly balanced.

The secret to this delicious wine is the specially selected blend of Glera and Chardonnay grapes aged in oak for three months. The blend undergoes a very long fermentation to yield a richer, more elegant Prosecco with more pronounced character.

AWARDS:
92 points – Gold Medal, Tastings.com (Beverage Testing Institute)

ABOUT STELLA ROSA:
It all started in 1917, when the Riboli family founded Los Angeles’ historic San Antonio Winery. Back then, Los Angeles was the prime location for wine growing in all of California. For some time, the wine industry reigned as one of Southern California’s most economically significant and popular industries of that time. After surviving Prohibition and about a century later, the Riboli family has continued its artisan winemaking tradition through four generations. Within the tasting rooms of San Antonio Winery, customers repeatedly requested a sweeter, light, refreshing wine. The Riboli family took this unique opportunity to create a new semi-sweet, semi-sparkling wine style, which today, they are the leader. And so, Stella Rosa was born. Learn more here.

Photo and Information © Stella Rosa – All Rights Reserved

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June Bubbly Club Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubAvissi
Prosecco DOC
Prosecco, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Just as Champagne is synonymous with the sparkling wine region of Champagne, France, Italy’s famous sparkling wine region is the Prosecco DOC zone located in Veneto, Italy.  At the center of it all is a lovely grape called Glera, previously known as Prosecco (renamed in 2009) and an equally lovely village called Prosecco. Prosecco sparkling wines are made in the Charmat method, a lighter style with more delicate bubbles than its French counterpart in Champagne.

Avissi is clean and bright, a crisp sparkler with soft, elegant bubbles that flutter in the glass, giving a lovely effervescence to each sip. A beautiful balance of heady floral notes and luscious fruit makes it imminently approachable. That’s why we love it with take-out after work, all dressed up on a Saturday night, or brunch on Sunday.

Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Glera (Prosecco)
Residual Sugar: 14.8 g/L
TA: 5.8 g/L
Appellation: Prosecco DOC, Veneto, Italy
Critical Acclaim: 92 Points – Tasting Panel Magazine

About Avissi Winery:
Located in a scenic village in northern Italy where Prosecco has flourished for hundreds of years, Avissi celebrates traditions, while bringing a new light to them. Grapes for Avissi are selected from small parcels of Glera vines grown throughout the Prosecco DOC. These vineyard blocks are faithfully tended to by families of winegrowers, who have farmed the vineyards for many generations. Avissi wines are crafted in small batches using concrete fermentation tanks, elevating the quality of the wine – a nuance you’ll be able to taste in the glass. Learn more about the Avissi winery here. 

Photos and Information © Avissi Wines – All Rights Reserved

La Gioiosa Et Amorosa
Prosecco Rosé
Millesimato DOC
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The nose is subtle and fresh, offering hints of small red fruits. Notes of rose and pomegranate complete this elegant and intense aromatic profile. On the palate, it is silky and full, presenting a very pleasant balance between the fruity and floral notes.

Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Varietal: Glera & Pinot Nero (Prosecco & Pinot Noir)
Sugar Content: 12 g/L
Region: Valdobbiadene, Veneto, Italy
Production Area: Vineyards in northeastern Italy (Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia) with alluvial soils rich in marl (carbonate minerals, clays, and silt).
Harvest: Pinot Nero grapes are picked in late August and the Glera grapes in mid-September.
Aging: Cold storage of the must in stainless steel tanks.
Food Pairings: Excellent as an aperitif. Ideal with finger foods and Mediterranean first courses.
Serving Temperature: 46.4ºF
Critical Acclaim: 90pts James Suckling, 2020

WINEMAKING:
Whole white clusters are soft-pressed in a bladder press. After an initial racking, the resulting must is transferred to temperature-controlled tanks where it remains until it is used for the production of the sparkling wine. After pressing, the red grapes are transferred into tanks and undergo gentle maceration for color and tannin extraction. Fermentation is carried out at 71.6ºF-73.4ºF to preserve the wine’s aromas.

SECOND FERMENTATION:
The white must and a small amount of the red must are blended together. Next, selected yeast is added to the resulting cuvée in vats where fermentation takes place at 59ºF-60.8ºF to enhance the fruits natural aromas. When the desired alcohol level and amount of residual sugar is obtained, fermentation is arrested by means of temperature control. After being aged for at least two months on its lees, the sparkling wine is ready for bottling.

La Gioiosa Et Amorosa
Prosecco Brut
Treviso DOC
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Very pale straw yellow in color with a fine, persistent perlage. The aroma is fruity and flowery with hints of ripe golden apple and small mountain flowers. The dry, fresh and flavorsome sensation on the palate is followed by a fruity and harmonious aftertaste.

Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Glera (Prosecco)
Sugar Content: 14 g/L
Region: Veneto, Italy
Production Area: Extends in the province of Treviso in the DOC area of Prosecco – including the hills of morainic origin, over the plain with medium textured soils of alluvial origin.
Training Method: Single espalier, double canopy and radiating systems
Aging: Stainless steel tanks
Food Pairings: Excellent as an aperitif to accompany savories; or ideal with steamed shellfish.
Serving Temperature: 42.8ºF-46.4ºF
Critical Acclaim: 93pts Bevtest 2021

VINIFICATION:
The grapes are harvested and pressed before the must is transferred to a temperature-controlled tank and chilled to slightly above freezing. The must is racked to a temperature-controlled pressurized tank (autoclave) where the first fermentation is provoked. Wine is stabilized using temperature control and second fermentation is provoked as well.

SECOND FERMENTATION:
The must is put into vessels where the fermentation takes place at 59ºF-60.8ºF to enhance all the harvest fragrances. Upon reaching the required alcohol and sugar content, the fermentation is stopped by refrigeration.

ABOUT LA GIOIOSA WINERY:
La Gioiosa is characterized by long traditions and an extraordinary attitude towards innovation and research. Their desire to produce wines in accordance to their own innovative, high quality and sustainable practices – from the vineyard to the bottle – have led them to support projects such as the Wine Research Team and the certification of Biodiversity Friend. Their mission is to share the magic of its bubbles in the world, with respect for the environment and for a healthier future of our planet. Learn more here.

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