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( 94 ) Taittinger Brut La Française ( France ). With chardonnay making up a plurality of the blend , the La Française exhibits an energy and vitality that many of its peers lack . A brilliant pale gold in the glass , the wine delivers a complex mixture of clean stone fruit , with subtle notes of spice and floral characteristics to the nose and palate . ($ 49.99 )
( 94 ) Mionetto Luxury Cartizze ( Italy ). From one the top volume producers in the Prosecco region comes a single-vineyard , high-end wine . Cartizze is the top-rated source for glera , and this fine example of a Cartizze Prosecco Superiore is a prime example of why the site is so highly regarded . On the nose , and in the mouth , you immediately notice the subtle tree and stone fruit , followed by a finish showcasing the quality of the wine . ($ 35 )
( 94 ) Roederer Estate Brut ( CA ). Pale lemony color that lights up your glass . Vibrant and creamy bubbles that last on the palate . Ripe citrus fruits with a hint of spice and toast . Well-made , affordable substitute for the consumer who wants a good “ Champagne ” without paying the big money . ($ 25 )
( 93 ) Gruet Brut Rosé ( NM ). Always a favorite sparkler — bright and inviting , with hints of wild strawberry and cherry . Rich and fruity , but dry , in the brut style . Lovely in the glass and lovely on your palate . ($ 18 )
( 93 ) Prosper Maufoux Cremant de Bourgogne Brut Rosé ( France ). From one of Burgundy ’ s highly regarded producers , this
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combination of pinot noir , chardonnay and gamay is a wonderful example of what experience and care can bring to the final product . A lovely pale pink in the glass , the nose and palate share a wide range of aromas and tastes , with bright red fruit and subtle spice among the components . At this price , it ’ s worth buying multiple bottles . ($ 19 )
( 93 ) Piper Sonoma Brut Rosé ( CA ). Utilizing some of the finest grapes Sonoma has to offer , this blend of chardonnay , pinot noir and some pinot blanc exhibits a striking bright pink in the glass . The nose and palate share an attractive profile of bright red fruit , with citrus and tropical notes . The lively finish is alluring and persistent . ($ 22 )
( 93 ) Ferrari Rosé ( Italy ). With more than a half century of experience , Ferrari has proven itself to be one of Italy ’ s top sparkling wine producers , over and over again . This wine serves to confirm the well-deserved reputation . Produced using the classical method , this blend of pinot noir and chardonnay is poised and graceful . The finish , nose , taste and mousse are all persistent and exceptionally well balanced . ($ 35.99 )
( 92 ) Villa Sandi Prosecco Superiore ( Italy ). With a family presence going back nearly 400 years , and a multi-generational commitment to quality , Villa Sandi enjoys a wellearned reputation across the Valdobbiadene region . Using a small portion of chardonnay to the traditional glera grape variety contributes weight , structure and complexity . The
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appealing nose and palate are dominated by tree fruit , with a long-lasting stream of bubbles . ($ 21 )
( 92 ) Anna de Codorníu Brut Rosé ( Spain ). From a centuries-old cava house , this blend of pinot noir and chardonnay spends at least a year on the lees , before being disgorged and prepared for shipment . The effervescence is delicate and persistent . The nose and palate of cherry , red berry and tree fruit add to the complexity and balance . A true bargain , given its price and high level of quality . ($ 14.99 )
( 92 ) Carneros Brut Rosé Cuvée de la Pompadour ( CA ). After spending a year and a half in the bottle before disgorgement , this blend of pinot noir and chardonnay develops into a graceful and poised sparkling wine . It has plenty of berry , stone and tree fruit , with a subtle hint of spice . Exceptionally versatile , it ’ s fruity yet quite dry . ($ 39.99 )
( 92 ) Miss Anaïs Red Blend 2019 ( France ). Our best value of the year ! Gorgeous mix of dark grenache and syrah . Velvety smooth , with hints of ripe fresh berry , red rose petal and a bit of black cinnamon on the finish . A real treat ! ($ 14.99 )
( 92 ) Gruet Brut NV ( NM ). Year after year , this NV brut — made from 75 % chardonnay and the balance , pinot noir — overdelivers . Beautiful , translucent bright gold . Small , lively , uniform bubbles . Fresh baked brioche with stone fruit and a hint of citrus on the nose . On the palate it is pleasantly dry , with early peach , apple and a hint of
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tropical fruit . The closest you can get to Champagne in this price range . ($ 15 )
( 92 ) Banfi Rosa Regale Sparkling Red ( Italy ). The gold standard for sweet bubblies . There is endless sweet berry fruit , with huge depth of flavor all encapsulated in small , savory bubbles that perfect the finish . Cheesecake with raspberry sauce and chocolate shavings with this sparkling is one of the most perfect food / wine pairings on the planet . ($ 18 )
( 92 ) Aveleda Vinho Verde 2019 ( Portugal ). While not a full-on sparkling wine , this delicious frizzante is perfect for warm weather . Low in alcohol , with a Stelvin closure and a bright , crisp palate , it is a match for any salad , light cheese or Bacalhau . Best buy ! ($ 8.95 )
( 92 ) 90 Plus Cellars Lot 50 Prosecco ( Italy ). Inviting aromas of peaches , pear , green apple and ginger . Refreshing and not too sweet . Great with appetizers or just on its own . Great value . ($ 12 )
FOUR STARS
( 91 ) Chandon Blanc de Pinot Noir ( CA ). This sparkling wine offers a wonderful fresh and elegant experience . There is a gentle and savory fruitiness from the start of the first sip to the finish . Extremely well rounded , and an impressive bubbly to pair with all sorts of foods . ($ 20 )
( 90 ) Lucien Albrecht Cremant d ’ Alsace ( France ). Fresh with fine , delicate bubbles . Aromas of fresh apple , white peach and apricot . Pairs well with shrimp and light salads . ($ 17 )
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