Chandon California Blanc de Noirs $12

I can recall a time when low priced Sparkling Wine was little more than fizzy vinegar, I drank it anyway, but you didn’t really want to be seen drinking the stuff. That is no longer the case, there are a whole slew of tasty bargain sparklers available. Chandon Blanc de Noirs is Moet Chandon’s California wine project. This is the American Sparkling Wine served at all White House Receptions. The Blanc de noirs (means white from black or red grapes) is a blend of two red grapes, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier both grown in Carneros County. Second fermentation is at least 12 months in the bottle.

The color is a light, very light golden yellow. The bubbles are very strong, sharp on your tongue, then they disappear. The nose has the typical champagne yeast aroma and light cherry and strawberry notes. The flavors are tart cherries and soft berries and then the creamy centers of chocolate covered cherries, not the chocolate flavors, just the creamy cherry centers.

At this price, it’s just not for toasts and special occasions any more.The Chandon Blanc de Noirs can be an everyday wine. With food, it will go well with anything a Pinot Noir can be paired with. I know I rarely think about grabbing a “Champagne Style” wine on a tuesday when I just want a bottle of wine to enjoy, I think it’s time to add Sparklers to the rotation.

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