Tag Archives: Veneto

November Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubVeuve Ambal bottleVeuve Ambal
Crémant de Bourgogne
Grande Cuvée Rosé
Burgundy, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Brilliant salmon color with bright pink highlights. Aromas of strawberry and grenadine with flavors of red currant, raspberry with an elegant finish.

Varietals: Pinot Noir, Gamay, and Chardonnay
Appellation: Crémant de Bourgogne AOC
Vine Age: Average 25 years
Alcohol: 12.0% alcohol / volume
Fermentation: First in stainless steel tank, followed by malolactic fermentation, then second fermentation in bottle (Méthode Traditionnelle)
Aging: 16-18 months on lees
Dosage: 10 g/lF
Farming Practices: Certified sustainable (HVE)
Serving Temperature: 46-50°F / 8-10°C
Accolades: 91 pts Wine Enthusiast Best Buy; 90 pts James Suckling; 90 pts Decanter

PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:
Cuvée Rosé goes perfectly with light, fresh dishes such as salmon or tuna carpaccios, summer salads with red fruits or a platter of fine charcuterie or French toast. It also goes well with fruity desserts, such as red fruit pavlova or raspberry macaroons.

WINEMAKER NOTES:
Crémant de Bourgogne Grande Cuvée Brut Rosé is a well-balanced, fruity and accessible cuvée, designed to embody the gourmandise of rosé without excess. It offers a fresh, crisp profile, ideal for those looking for a rosé with character, both lively and convivial. A Crémant de Bourgogne Rosé to be shared on any occasion, around a relaxed aperitif or a simple, tasty meal.

WINEMAKING:
After harvest, a slow pressing process is used with pneumatic presses to respect the integrity of the berries. The first presses, richer and more complex, are selected to produce the best basic wines in stainless steel tanks. After filtration and clarification, a team of oenologists meticulously composes the blend, paying particular attention to the wines to bring out their full color. Liqueur de tirage (a mixture of sugar and wine) and yeast are added to the wines before bottling. Under the action of the yeast, carbon dioxide generates effervescence. The bottles remain on laths for a minimum of 12 months at constant temperature in the cellar. This prolonged ageing allows the wine to develop its specific aromas and to offer bubbles of great finesse. The bottles are then stirred and disgorged to remove any yeast deposits. A dosage-determining liqueur is added before corking and labeling.

ABOUT VEUVE AMBAL:
Female-founded and family-owned,  Veuve Ambal estate has over a century of history as a pioneer of Crémant in Burgundy.  Founed by Marie Ambal in 1898 in Rully, Burgundy, Veuve Ambal is led today by Eric and Aurélien Piffaut.  Veuve Ambal embodies the very essence of Crémants de Bourgogne, strong in its terroir and rich in history and know-how. Since its foundation, the company has created, preserved and passed on the tradition of sparkling wine in Burgundy.  Each bottle is the fruit of a passionate commitment to quality, where the authenticity of origin blends with the excellence of production methods. Learn more about Veuve Ambal heritage>

Photo and Information © Veuve Ambal – All Rights Reserved

Bisol Crede bottleBisol
Crede
Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Straw yellow with greenish hues, this wine offers an intensely fruity nose of white peach and lychee, lifted by a delicate hint of anise. The palate is fresh and linear, with well-balanced acidity and a clean, mineral finish.

Varietals: 85% Glera, 15% Chardonnay
Appellation: Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG, Veneto, Italy
Alcohol: 11.5% alcohol / volume
Residual Sugar: 8 g/L
Total Acidity: 6.3 g/L
pH: 3.2
Dosage: Brut
Soil: Clay
Farming: Sustainable Viticulture practices

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
Serve in a flute or tulip glass, which provides a more generous chamber to savor the aromas. Prosecco Superiore is best enjoyed chilled.  Place the bottle in a bucket filled half way with water and ice. As the wine gently warms in the glass, it opens up to reveal it’s aromatic qualities. 

VINEYARDS:
“Crede” is the local term for clay, a type of soil that has the unique ability to retain water, which in turn helps protect the vines from drought conditions. This region, situated 250 meters above sea level, benefits greatly from this natural characteristic, ensuring that the vines receive adequate hydration even during dry periods.

WINEMAKING NOTES:
This vintage saw a rainy spring that supported balanced vine growth, followed by a warm summer that advanced ripening. Cooler nights in September preserved aromatic definition and freshness, resulting in healthy grapes with vibrant acidity and balanced structure.  Harvested in small lots, the grapes undergo gentle pressing while chilled. Fermentation in stainless steel tanks and aging on lees come before the second fermentation, which follows the Martinotti method for at least 30 days.

Photo of next generation of Bisol wine family

“My grandfather Desiderio and my father Antonio were always on the lookout for the best plots to purchase. Those were the steepest ones, and as such the hardest to cultivate, but their gradient and soil composition made them perfect for growing Glera grapes. It shows how long-sighted they were, and how important the quality of the final product was for them”. – Gianluca Bisol

ABOUT BISOL WINERY:
With roots dating back to 1542, Bisol represents 21 generations of family winemaking in the heart of Valdobbiadene, the historic home of Prosecco. The family’s winery reflects this deep heritage, with original details carefully preserved and cellars carved into the region’s rocky landscape. Naturally maintaining temperatures between 10°C and 15°C, these cellars provide ideal conditions for preserving the family’s most treasured bottles. More than a place where sparkling wines are made, Bisol is a living connection to the traditions, craftsmanship, and history that have shaped Prosecco Superiore for centuries. Learn more about Bisol wine cave and the story of Bisol>

Photo and Information © Bisol and Wilson Daniels – All Rights Reserved

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October Cheese Club: Iowa

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Jaspers Eligo cheeseCheese ClubJasper Hill Farm Eligo Pasteurized Cow and Goat Milk Cheese Greensboro, Vermont

Eligo, named for a nearby lake, is the first cheese Jasper Hill Creamery has developed to suit the expertly crafted goat milk coming from their partners at Bridgman Hill Farm. Eligo’s flavors bring out the best in both milk types; buttery richness from the cow milk carries a soft, white pepper spice note and goat aromas. A densely creamy texture is a bit softer beneath the rosy-orange washed rind, where the flavors are more pronounced.

WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRINGS: Eligo’s goat aromas and subtle earthiness from the rind make it a great match for skin contact or full-bodied white wines, and mixed fermentation ales. Preserved lemon, mild green olives, and toasted almonds make for nice accompaniments.

ABOUT THE CREAMERY: It all began when brothers Andy and Mateo, along with their wives, Victoria and Angie, pooled their life savings and bought a rocky hillside farm in Vermont’s subarctic climate zone near the Canadian border. What made the Northeast Kingdom region special to them was the sleepy village of Greensboro with its sparkling, secluded Caspian Lake – where their family had found summer respite for more than 100 years.  Greensboro’s sparse population and rural locale held few opportunities for conventional career paths. The old dairy barn they found themselves with hadn’t seen cows for nearly 40 years. About a third of the farms in town sold their cows in 1998; the same year that the Kehlers bought what locals referred to as “the old Jasper Hill farm.” Learn more about Jasper Hill Farm’s story here> Information and Photos © Jasper Hill Farm – All Rights Reserved.

Coopers-Hill-Header-Product-485x485Cooper’s Hill Double Gloucester Great Britain

Cooper’s Hill celebrates a famous cheese rolling tradition enshrined in English folklore.  This pasteurized cow’s milk cheese combines the creamy texture and rounded taste of a quintessential British Double Gloucester with the tang of added chives and onions. Every year, a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese is sent down the hill and the first person chasing it to cross the finish line receives the wheel of the cheese and all the accolades. Learn more about this fun tradition >

WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRINGS: This cheese suits Mellow or Bold wine styles, such as a Syrah or Spanish Rioja wine. Silky white wine style, such as a Sauvignon Blanc from Sancerre region in Loire Valley, France. For craft beer, a natural partner would be British or American Brown Ales.

WINESTYLES: Bold or Mellow red wines or  Silky white wines. BEERSTYLES: Fruity & Spicy

Information © Zuercher & Co. – All Rights Reserved.

Join our Cheese Club and bring home a match made in heaven!Match Made in Heaven!

If you enjoy pairing cheese with wine, this is your club!  Each month you’ll discover specialty and artisan cheeses to pair with your Wine Club. Monthly cheese selections are chosen by your local WineStyles participating location. It’s the perfect opportunity to Taste, Learn and Enjoy® amazing artisan cheese every month! Only $19.99/month and your wine won’t be lonely!  Click to learn more >

October Cheese Club: Cedar Rapids

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Cheese Club Fromager florette goat cheese Fromager d’Affinois Florette Goat’s Milk Brie Cheese Pélussin, France

Florette is a goat’s milk cheese with a stark white paste and a dimple-edged rind, folded over itself like a freshly baked pie crust. It’s the brightest, freshest-tasting cheese in Fromager d’Affinois’ lineup, with notes of tangy lemon yogurt and a clean, fresh scent, reminiscent of grass after a morning rain. 

PAIRINGS: Best paired with fresh, springtime flavors, like lemon marmalade, Granny Smith apples, and Marcona almonds. Or ripe blueberries, honey and fresh basil. Also great with spiced fig jam. This cheese pairs beautifully with Sauvignon Blanc wines, cool-climate Chardonnay, sparkling wines, or Beaujolais and light Pinot Noir wines. 

WINESTYLES: Silky or Mellow

BEERSTYLES: Crisp & Clean

ABOUT THE CREAMERY: In the 1980s, Jean Claude Guilloteau and his wife settled in Pélussin, a picturesque village in France’s Rhône-Alpes region, near Lyon. Surrounded by vineyards, mountains and a rich culinary tradition, Guilloteau set out to rethink the art of French cheesemaking.

Drawing on his experience in yogurt production, Guilloteau pioneered the use of ultrafiltration, a process that removes excess water from milk while retaining its natural richness. Combined with years of research into unique cultures and rennet, this innovative approach created the signature silky, creamy texture and delicate flavor found in Fromagerie Guilloteau cheeses, like Florette. What began in a small French village eventually found its way to cheese lovers around the world. Learn more about the history of Fromager d’Affinois here> Information © Fromager d’Affinois – All Rights Reserved.

Coopers-Hill-Header-Product-485x485Cooper’s Hill Double Gloucester Great Britain

Cooper’s Hill celebrates a famous cheese rolling tradition enshrined in English folklore.  This pasteurized cow’s milk cheese combines the creamy texture and rounded taste of a quintessential British Double Gloucester with the tang of added chives and onions. Every year, a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese is sent down the hill and the first person chasing it to cross the finish line receives the wheel of the cheese and all the accolades. Learn more about this fun tradition > WINE & CRAFT BEER PAIRINGS: This cheese suits Mellow or Bold wine styles, such as a Syrah or Spanish Rioja wine. Silky white wine style, such as a Sauvignon Blanc from Sancerre region in Loire Valley, France. For craft beer, a natural partner would be British or American Brown Ales. WINESTYLES: Bold or Mellow red wines or  Silky white wines. BEERSTYLES: Fruity & Spicy Information © Zuercher & Co. – All Rights Reserved.

Join our Cheese Club and bring home a match made in heaven!Match Made in Heaven!

If you enjoy pairing cheese with wine, this is your club!  Each month you’ll discover specialty and artisan cheeses to pair with your Wine Club. Monthly cheese selections are chosen by your local WineStyles participating location. It’s the perfect opportunity to Taste, Learn and Enjoy® amazing artisan cheese every month! Only $19.99/month and your wine won’t be lonely!  Click to learn more >

October Sweet Club: Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubSchmitt Soehne Riesling KabinettSchmitt Söhne
Sweet Riesling Kabinett
Mosel, Germany

NECTAR WINE STYLE

This delicate, moderately light-bodied Riesling has a tasteful Granny Smith apple characteristic that is crisp and lively on the palate. Vibrant acidity and classic Mosel minerality.

Variety: 100% Riesling
Alcohol: 8.5% alcohol / volume
RS: 38 g/L
Total Acidity: 8.0 g/L
Fermentation: Stainless Steel cold fermented
Food Pairing: Ideal as an aperitif or paired with spicy Asian dishes, seafood, shellfish, poultry, salads, creamy pastas, pork dishes, and mild cheeses.
Serve: Well chilled.

WINEMAKING:
While technology has changed and improved especially over the past decades, the substance remains the same: different growing regions, ripeness and quality of grapes determine the product in general while the knowledge and decisions of the winemaker add to the winery’s individual footprint.

Riper grapes provide more aroma and flavor, hence make a more expressive and flavorful wine. Sweetness in a wine, an attribute independent of its quality level, does not depend on the ripeness of grapes but on the winemaker’s decision regarding the fermentation process.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
During its evolution from a small local winery to one of the leaders in German wine exports, Schmitt Söhne has never lost sight of its focus: to produce wines of first-class quality that meet modern customers as well as market requirements and developing innovative projects in line with the spirit of the times.

Now in the 5th generation, Schmitt Söhne is one of Germany’s largest and most successful wine exporters to wine drinkers all over the world. While continuously developing their winemaking and looking for ways to incorporate new technologies and techniques, they never lose sight of the traditional way of producing exceptional German wines. Their policy has remained the same for over 200 years: to create the best wines possible using only top-quality grapes.  Learn more about Schmitt Söhne family wines here>

Photo and Information courtesy of © Schmitt Söhne – All Rights Reserved.

La Marc Demi Sec ProseccoLa Marca
Prosecco Demi Sec DOC
Veneto, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

La Marca Prosecco Demi Sec D.O.C. is beautifully balanced and sweet, bursting with vivacious notes of citrus, sweet apple, and rich honey.

Variety: Glera
Alcohol: 11.5% alcohol / volume
Style: Demi-sec (semi-sweet)
Appellation: Prosecco D.O.C., Veneto, Italy
Closure Type: Natural cork
Food Pairing: Pairs well with creamy soft cheeses, like Brie and goat cheese, alongside rich, salty cured meats, like salami and prosciutto. Also delicious with subtly sweet, fruit-forward desserts, like lemon tart, peach cobbler or strawberry shortcake.
Serve: Slightly chilled, enjoy on its own or with cocktail recipes

WINEMAKING:
La Marca’s signature vivacious bubbles are crafted using the Metodo Italiano—the traditional Italian sparkling winemaking process that preserves the bright, fruit-forward character of the Glera grape. The result is the crisp, refreshing style with a delicate floral palate that you love from La Marca.

A fruit-forward, inviting alternative to Champagne, their Proseccos dazzle the senses with vivacious bubbles and vibrant flavors. With a zest for life and roots in effortless Italian style, La Marca’s inviting, sparkling wines have captured the hearts and flutes of all those who seek to spark joy—and believe a chilled glass of bubbles is the perfect way to mark life’s most joyful moments, big and small.

La Marca brings a welcome taste of La Dolce Vita through lively sparkling wines, warm Italian hospitality, and approachable style—all of which come together to make La Marca America’s most-loved sparkling wine brand.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Since 1968, La Marca has been a devoted ambassador for Prosecco and the Veneto region of Italy.  La Marca refers to the historic Marca Trevigiana, the region of northeastern Italy centered on Treviso that has been associated with Prosecco production for centuries. Crafted in Treviso—the heart of Italy’s Prosecco region—their sparkling wines represent 5,000 local growers who share a deep pride and passion for the land, the Glera grape, and the exceptional wines they bring to the world.  Veneto 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. Treviso, Italy’s Prosecco capital, is home to the light and expressive Glera grape—a variety known for its bright, fruit-forward character that brings notes of green apple, peach, and citrus to every glass. Learn more about La Marca here>

Photo and Information courtesy of © La Marca – All Rights Reserved.

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July Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubJeio_Brut_Valdobbiadene_Prosecco_bottleJeio
Brut Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG NV
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Jeio Prosecco Superiore NV has bright aromas of fresh green apple, with notes of citrus fruit, peach, apricot, and tropical notes of banana, papaya and mango emerge beautifully. White flowers and vegetal notes of freshly cut grass compliment the subtle hint of ginger that adds an intriguing complexity to the profile. Dry with consistent body, this wine is elegant, fresh, and crispy, but not light.

Region: Veneto, Italy
Appellation: Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG
Varietals: 85% Glera, 15% International varieties
Soil: Marl/Clay soils
Alcohol: 11.5% alcohol / volume
Residual Sugar: 11.3 g/L
Total Acidity: 5.34 g/L
pH: 3.29
Age: 10 to 50 years old
Eco-Practices: Sustainable
Aging: Brief aging on the lees before the second fermentation via Martinotti method for at least 60 days.
Critical Acclaim: 92 pts Wine Enthusiast 2022; 90 pts James Suckling 2022

WINEMAKING:
The Jeio brand is inspired by the influential Desiderio Bisol, whose wife lovingly referred to him as Jeio. The father of the current generation of Bisol, Desiderio was dedicated to product quality, acquiring only the steepest plots. While considerably more difficult to work, these plots are ideal for vine cultivation. As a result of his vision, the Glera cultivated in these vineyards is especially rich in malic acid, making the final wine more dynamic and evolved. Only the best Glera grapes are selected from Bisol’s 35 plots in Valdobbiadene to make the highly aromatic Jeio Brut. Soft pressing, fermentation in stainless steel tank and aging on lees precede the second fermentation through the Martinotti method for at least 30 days.

VINEYARD PROFILE:
The vineyards of Jeio, part of the renowned Bisol family, are nestled in the heart of the Prosecco Superiore DOCG region, known for producing the highest-quality Prosecco in Italy. The Bisol family, pioneers in the region, are recognized as the founding family of Prosecco Superiore, and their vineyards reflect a deep commitment to craftsmanship and tradition. The vines, ranging in age from 10 to 50 years, thrive in the rich marl and clay soils of the area, which offer a perfect balance of drainage and moisture retention, essential for producing exceptional grapes. These soils, combined with the unique microclimates of the steep hills, allow the Glera grapes to reach their full potential, imparting the wines with complex aromas, refreshing acidity, and a distinctive minerality.

ABOUT THE WINERY
Jeio is the fruit of two interwoven love stories. The first of generations of the Bisol family who have faithfully cared for their vineyards and within this same family, there is the love of a wife who affectionately gave her husband Desiderio Bisol, the nickame “Jeio.” Learn more here.

Photo and Information © Wilson Daniels – All Rights Reserved

santa-margherita-Prosecco-bottleSanta Margherita
Prosecco Superiore di Valdobbiadene DOCG
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This sparkling wine has fine, lively bubbles that dance within its bright straw-yellow color and greenish reflections. Its lovely aromas include ripe pineapples, peaches, and Rennet apples as well as delicate florals. Its finish is bright and dry, yet sweet on the palate.

Region: Veneto, Italy
Appellation: Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG
Varietal: Glera
Altitude: 985 – 1,640 ft. above sea level
Soil: Of morainic origin, with little depth
Alcohol: 11.5% alcohol / volume
Sugar Content: 11 g/750ML
Serving Temperature: 43-45ºF
Recommended glass: Medium-sized, tulip-shaped, narrowing towards the rim
Training systems: Sylvoz, Double-Arched Cane
Plant density: 1,215 – 1620 per acre
Harvest period: Second half of September
Aging Potential: 1-2 years, meant to be enjoyed fresh

PAIRING NOTES:
Perfect as an apéritif, this celebrated bubbly pairs well with seafood or cheese appetizers. It also adds flavorful sparkle to brunch classics or your favorite rich dessert. Even rich, creamy dishes such as pasta carbonara, fried favorites like calamari, or even grilled filet of beef will not overwhelm its vivaciousness.

WINEMAKING NOTES:
Luscious and aromatic, the Glera grapes are meticulously hand-harvested. This area has some of the steepest hills in Italy, which benefit the grapes with better drainage and sun exposure. Being so high above sea level also creates cool nights and warm days, which these grapes love. After hand-harvesting, they turn them into a cuvée (base wine) that is fermented with selected yeasts at precisely controlled temperatures to preserve full, complex flavor. Once fermentation is complete, the wine is matured for three more months, allowing the full aromatic potential and vibrant taste of their Prosecco to converge.

ABOUT SANTA MARGHERITA:
Santa Margherita grows luscious, aromatic, Glera grapes in the gentle hills of Valdobbiadene. Just north of Venice, this town is synonymous with the finest Prosecco Superiore and DOCG status – the highest and most distinctive classification possible. Their early development and investment in Conegliano-Valdobbiadene began in 1952, when Gaetano Marzotto fell in love with sparkling Prosecco and the enchanting area where it is made. He immediately recognized the wine’s potential. It is a love story that is more passionate today than ever before, and it has led Santa Margherita to become one of the top producers of this exceptional wine, and for Prosecco to become one of the most famous and highly regarded sparkling wines in the world. Learn more here.

Information & Photos © Santa Margherita – All Rights Reserved.

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June Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubLaGioiosa_Prosecco_Rose_BottleLa Gioiosa
Prosecco DOC
Rosé Brut Millesimato
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This Prosecco Rosé presents itself revealing a pomegranate nuance edged with soft pink reflections. 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.

Region: Prosecco DOC, Veneto, Italy
Varietals: Glera and Pinot Noir
Alcohol: 11% alcohol / volume
Sugar Content: 12 g/L
Acidity: 5.8 g/L
Harvest Period: End of August for Pinot Noir, middle of September for Glera.
Serving Temperature: Best served chilled, 43ºF-48ºF
Pairing: Excellent as an aperitif, ideal with finger foods and Mediterranean first courses. Also pairs with pizza, ham, and salad.

Critical Acclaim:

  • 90 Points – James Suckling 2020
  • Gold – Japan Women’s Wine Awards
  • 91 Points – Falstaff
  • 2023 – Glass of Bubbly Trophy

PRODUCTION AREA:
One of the first ever Prosecco Rosé DOC produced.  Areas dedicated to vine-growing in the north-eastern regions of Italy (Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions) with marly soils of alluvial origin rich in subsoil. the base wine cuvée is made from a blend between Glera and Pinot Nero grapes.

VINIFICATION:
Whole white grapes are soft-pressed. After an initial racking, the resulting must is transferred to temperature-controlled tanks where it remains until used for production.  After pressing, the red grapes are transferred into tanks where they undergo gentle maceration for color and tannin extraction. Fermentation is carried out at low temperatures to preserve the wine’s aroma. 

Prosecco-Doc-Treviso-Spumante-bottleLa Gioiosa
Prosecco DOC
Treviso, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Very pale straw yellow and 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.

Variety: Glera
Alcohol: 11% alcohol / volume
Sugar Content: 12 g/L
Acidity: 5.8 g/L
Region: Treviso, Prosecco DOC, Italy
Training: Single espalier, double canopy and radiating systems with 2300 vines per hectare
Yield per Hectare: Max. 180 quintals of grapes on average
Harvest Period: Second 10 days of September
Serving Temperature: 43ºF
Pairing: An excellent aperitif to accompany savory dishes, ideal with steamed shellfish
Critical Acclaim:

  • 93 Points – Bevtest 2021
  • Decanter Magazine

PRODUCTION AREA:
The 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.

VINIFICATION:
Whole grapes are put into the pneumatic press for soft pressing.  The resulting must, after a first racking, is placed into pressurized temperature-controlled tanks where it remains until it is used for the production of the sparkling wine.

ABOUT LA GIOIOSA WINERY:
With the name La Gioiosa et Amorosa meaning “joyous and seductive”, the winery strives to create wines that express celebration, beauty, friendship and family, all good times spent in great company. The winery was created in the 1920’s when the grandfather of the current president, Giancarlo Moretti Polegato, purchased some vineyards in the Treviso hills (the heart of the ear producing the best wines). Today, they have added to their vineyards and estates and are one of Italy’s main wineries and business with a significant global reach.

Information & Photos © La Gioiosa – All Rights Reserved.

Sophia-Brut-Rose-bottleFrancis Ford Coppola Winery
Sofia Brut Rosé
Pinot Noir
Monterey County, California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Styled after the sparkling Rosés in France, Sofia Brut Rosé offers delicate effervescence, crisp natural acidity and a light, creamy texture. It has scents of shortbread, citrus and bergamot, with flavors of raspberry, strawberry, and mandarin. The finish is buoyant, effervescent, crisp and lively.

Varietal: Pinot Noir
Alcohol: 12% alcohol / volume
Appellation: Monterey County, California
Aging Regimen: Stainless steel
Styles: Brut

ABOUT THE 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.

Information & Photos © Francis Ford Coppola Winery – All Rights Reserved.

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May Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubValdo-numero-1-bottleValdo
Numero 1
Sparkling Wine
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

In the glass, light straw with greenish reflections. The bouquet is extremely fine and fruity, ranging from floral to green apple scents. The palate has a persistent taste. This bright wine reveals a harmonious and balanced sweetness.

Alcohol: 11% alcohol / volume
Altitude: Mainly in the plains
Vinification: Soft pressing and fermentation at a controlled temperature
Sparkling and Refining Processes: 3-month processing with Charmat method, followed by aging in bottle
Storage and Serving Recommendations: Chill the wine gradually without causing sudden changes in temperature to enjoy the product at its best. Do not store the bottle for long periods in the refrigerator. Ideal when served at 43-46°F.
Food Pairings: This sparkling wine can be consumed throughout any meal, but is excellent when pairing with sophisticated dishes and finger food.

WINEMAKING NOTES:
N1 is a special sparkling wine, obtained from a careful selection of grapes from the most prestigious wine-growing areas of the Veneto region, which makes it suitable for every occasion. The longstanding tradition of Valdobbiadene in making spumante, which is known and appreciated throughout Italy, is expressed at its best in Valdo’s Numero 1.

Valdo-marca-oro-prosecco-brut-bottleValdo
Marca Oro Brut
Prosecco DOC
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

In the glass, light straw with greenish reflections. The nose is slightly fruity and the palate is harmonious and reminiscent of ripe, wild apple.

Varietal: Glera
Alcohol: 11% alcohol / volume
Altitude: 80 meters above sea level
Vinification: Soft pressing and fermentation at a 64°F controlled temperature
Sparkling and Refining Processes: 3-month processing followed aging in the bottle
Storage and Serving Recommendations: Chill the wine gradually without causing sudden changes in temperature to enjoy the product at its best. Do not store the bottle for long periods in the refrigerator. Ideal when served at 43-46°F in a flute glass.
Food Pairings: Thanks to its versatility, this wine is perfect for many different occasions, but with appetizers and first courses is a great way to pop this bubbly.
Critical Acclaim:

  • 89 points – 2021 James Suckling
  • 91 Points – 2024 Tasting Panel

WINEMAKING NOTES:
Marca Oro is Valdo’s gold standard.  An elegant Prosecco that was first introduced in the 1950’s, winning the hearts of multiple generations since then. Born to be enjoyed as an aperitif or to enhance every moment.

Valdo-marca-oro-prosecco-rose-bottleValdo
Marca Oro Rosé
Vintage Brut
Prosecco DOC
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

In the glass, this Rosé Brut is soft, bright pink and reminiscent of wild rose petals. The nose is floral and delicately fruity, with hints of apple, pear and small red fruits. It is dry, pleasantly fruity and harmonious with persistent and bubbles.

Varietal: 90% Glera, 10% Pinot Noir
Alcohol: 11% alcohol / volume
Altitude: 80-100 meters above sea level
Vinification: Pinot Noir: One day of maceration and subsequent soft pressing. Glera: Soft pressing and fermentation at a controlled temperature.
Sparkling and Refining Processes: 3-month processing with Charmat method, followed by aging in bottle
Storage and Serving Recommendations: To better enhance the aromas and flavor of this sparkling wine, serve it in a large glass at a temperature of 43-46°F, gradually cooling the bottle beforehand. It’s important not to keep the wine in the fridge for too long.
Food Pairings: As an alternative pre-dinner drink, it also pairs well with Mediterranean cuisine. Try it with pasta and fish dishes such as tuna and sea bass tartare.
Critical Acclaim:

  • 90 points – 2021 James Suckling
  • Silver – 2021 China Wine Competition
  • Silver – 2021 The Drinks Business – The Prosecco Masters
  • Bronze – 2021 Decanter World Wine Awards

WINEMAKING NOTES:
Marca Oro Rosé represents the extension of the values and range of Marca Oro. It is young, bright, smart and trendy sparkling wine, and the result of a careful selection of high-quality grapes. With its clean-cut personality and enticing color, it is an ideal aperitif wine.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Considered one of the oldest in the area, Valdo Winery is a name after the land it belongs to, Valdobbiadene. A name that is tightly linked to the Bolla family, who spread the culture of Prosecco in Italy and throughout the world for three generations. The Valdo wineries were established in the heart of Conegliano Valdobbiadene, a prestigious and UNESCO-recognized region in Veneto, Italy, located north of Venice. To learn more about Valdo’s legacy and winery click here. To learn more about this history and interesting facts about Prosecco click here.

 

Information & Photos © Valdo– All Rights Reserved.

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March Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubKylie Rose prosecco wine bottleKylie Minogue Wines
Prosecco Rosé DOC
Gambellara, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

An elegant sparkling Prosecco Rosé with notes of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blossom. Brightly textured and crisp palate with a refreshing citrus finish.

Varietal: 85% Glera, Pinot Nero 15%
Region: Gambellara, Italy
Vines: Average 10 years old
Harvest: Late August to mid-September
Pairing: Perfectly paired with fresh canapés, such as smoked salmon crostini or prosciutto-wrapped melon and fruit-based desserts. Serve chilled.

Winemaking:

  • The soil is made up of limestone, giving the wine mineral complexity
  • Strong sea breezes, constant sun, mistral winds, and cool nights create an ideal climate for fresh and acidic grapes
  • The grapes undergo a soft pressing and are either fermented or stored as unfermented must
  • Charmat method fermentation occurs at 62ºF for 60 days

ABOUT KYLIE MINOGUE WINES:
From the heart of Italy, Kylie Minogue has partnered with one of the most renowned premium Prosecco producers in the world to bring you her vision for Prosecco Rosé. Founded in 2020, Kylie Minogue Wines has achieved remarkable success with a diverse portfolio of nine exquisite wines. Among them, the globally best-selling Signature and Prosecco Rosé have captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts worldwide. Learn more here.

Kylie Minogue

Information & Photos © Kylie Minogue – All Rights Reserved.

Arego Ruggeri Prosecco bubbly wine bottleRuggeri
Argeo Prosecco DOC
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Very pale straw yellow with greenish glints, perfect clarity with abundant, persistent, fine perlage. The fresh, elegant bouquet offers flowery sensations merging into a typically fruity harmonious complexity with intense aromas reminiscent of golden apple. Fresh, delicate, balanced on the palate and light in alcohol with a long fruity finish.

Varietal: Glera (min. 85%) and other local white grape varieties (max. 15%)
Analysis: 11% alcohol/volume
Residual Sugar: 12 g
Area of Production: Veneto, Italy, on the hillsides of the first slopes of the Dolomite mountains, in the extreme north of the Province of Treviso.
Winemaking: White vinification, that is to say without the skins, at a controlled temperature of 68ºF, for approximately 8 days. Pressure behind the cork: approximately 5 atm. The wine is then put through a slow re-fermentation in large sealed tanks at 54-57ºF.
Recommended Pairings: Perfect as an apéritif, it goes well with hors d’oeuvres and light first courses.
Critical Accolades:

  • 90 pts – James Suckling 2023
  • 90 pts – James Suckling 2021
  • 92 pts – BTI 2019

ABOUT RUGGERI WINERY:
Five generations of the Bisol family have shaped the development of a business that has a deep understanding of the future. Ruggeri is one of the five founding producers of Prosecco, established by Giustino Bisol in 1950 in Santo Stefano, when commercialization of Prosecco began. In 1990 they relocated to the town of Valdobbiadene. They have long standing relationships with about 110 growers as most vineyards are on small plots of land, similar to Burgundy where no one owns very large acreage. Ruggeri sends their viticulturist to work with their growers, insuring consistency and quality. After hand harvesting the grapes, they are brought to the winery which has two independent receiving lines and five soft presses, ensuring that the grapes are processed immediately upon arrival. In 2019, Ruggeri was the first Prosecco producer to receive the prestigious Gambero Rosso “Star” classification, which is only given to wineries who have earned 10 or more Tre Bicchieri awards. They are extremely passionate, dedicated and consistent with 40% of their wines is sold in Italy, the rest is exported to 59 countries. Learn more here.

Information & Photos © Ruggeri and WinesU – All Rights Reserved.

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February Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubAvaline-Sparkling-bottleAvaline
Sparkling Wine
Catalonia, Spain

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Straw yellow tones offer up aromas of roasted almond and brioche. The toast scent gives way to delicate layers of apple, melon and peach on the palate. Creamy bubbles provide a satisfying mineral finish with lingering notes of lemon curd.

Varietal: Organic Xarello, Macabeo, Parellada and Malvasia de Sitges
Analysis: 12% alcohol/volume
Sugar: 0 g/L
Sulfites: 63 mg/L
Certifications: Certified Organic by CCPAE (Competent Body of Catalonia)
Sustainability Measures: Protection of terroir, utilizing animal traction to avoid machinery as much as possible, protecting biodiversity of the land.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER:
Raventós i Blanc is one of the oldest wineries in the world. It has been in the Raventos family since 1497 and specializes in sparkling wines. The family is committed to the natural and historic heritage of their estate, going to great lengths to promote biological diversity and improve sustainability.

Avaline-Prosecco-bottleAvaline
Prosecco
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Beautiful white floral aromas with honeysuckle, peach blossom, white stone fruit, and slight yellow apple. The palate is super pretty with white peach notes, hints of lime and pink grapefruit and tons of minerality and tension across the palate.

Varietal: 100% Organic Glera
Analysis: 11% alcohol/volume
Sugar: 1.5 g/5oz
pH: 3.09
TA: 6.9 g/L
Sulfites: 91 mg/L
Aging: 7 months in stainless steel before the second fermentation
Sustainability Measures: Certified Organic, Certified Biodynamic, water resource management and renewable energy principles, reuse of CO2, measures to reduce waste generation, reforestation.
Soil: Volcanic soil sitting in the heart of the Colli Euganei Natural Park
Fermentation: Hand picked and whole cluster pressed to a stainless steel tank for the first fermentation. The second fermentation is Charmat method which means it ferments under pressure in a tank for 2- 3 months before being bottled.
Food Pairings: Raw oysters, Thai takeout, prosciutto and ripe melon.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER:
Azienda Agricola Fasoli Gino has been a pillar of the Veneto wine making region for over a century, known for creating wines that combine heritage practices with forward-thinking technology. For the past fifty years, they’ve been pioneers in organic farming and early adopters of the regenerative organic movement in Italy, confirming their commitment to nurturing the land while producing exceptional wines. on to make fresh, delicious wines with organically-grown grapes.

Avaline ProseccoABOUT THE WINERY:
Avaline was founded on the belief that people should know exactly what’s in their wine. Made with organic grapes, no added sugar, and no unnecessary additives, each bottle lists full ingredient and nutritional information right on the label. Co-founded by actress Cameron Diaz and entrepreneur Katherine Power, the brand was built from the ground up to prioritize transparency and simplicity. Avaline offers a range of wines, crafted without added colors or concentrates. Headquartered in Los Angeles, the company works with vineyards and producers across Italy, France, Spain, and California to bring its wines to life. Learn more here.

Information & Photos © Avaline – All Rights Reserved.

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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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