A Sparkling Finish

The season of celebration is upon us, and there will be a bubbly beverage that is likely on any party planner’s shopping list—Champagne and sparkling wines. Champagne has been associated with luxury and authority for centuries, and was traditionally served as part of festive occasions. With some very successful marketing, this tradition is still recognized today.

One very common misconception is "Champagne" and "sparkling wine" are interchangeable. This is not the case. Wines created in the Champagne region in France are only allowed to use that synonymous title. However, even though sparkling wines do not possess the title of their French cousins, the primary method of creation is the same. In the traditional method, or méthode champenoise, a secondary fermentation takes place in the bottle. Other techniques include the Charmat method, carbon dioxide injection and the transfer method. All of these procedures vary in applied pressure and the length of the aging process, and ultimately influence the wine’s price.

The carbonation concoction allows for some indulgent pairings. Louis Roederer Cristal is famously known for its appearance in music videos depicting sheer indulgence. The 2005 selection contains stoned fruit and citrus aromas, fresh almonds and sweet blossom meant to be savored with caviar (from $200). Another bubbly that tops wine lovers’ lists time and time again is Domaine Carneros Le Rêve de Blancs (from $100). The 2006 bottle intertwines bouquets of white flowers, pear and lemon curd with crème brûlée, spices and toasted nuts. The silky finish complements a delicious double- or triple-cream cheese, fish, shellfish and poultry.

For buyers looking for something local, Temecula has countless award-winning wineries with an abundance of top-notch sparkling wines. South Coast Winery carries a large selection of award-winning wines each to excite the palate. The Sparkling Blanc de Blanc ($28) won the gold at The London International Wine and Spirits Fair this year, as well as gold at the California State Fair and double gold at the San Diego County Fair. Made from 100-percent Chardonnay grapes, this glass will send notes of apple and floral aromas with an oak background and a touch of vanilla. South Coast’s Sparkling Pinot Noir Rose ($18) will excite any sweet palate with its strawberry, raspberry and cotton candy aromas, perfectly balanced with acidity. The Sparkling Pinot Noir Rose is the silver winner of 2013’s Inland Empire Magazine Competition as well as the Pacific Rim International.

Most often during the holidays, when mailboxes are stuffed with party invites, we look for a bottle to add to the festivities. For anyone who doesn’t want to show up empty-handed but isn’t quite sure what to type of Champagne or sparkling wine to bring, it is in the best interest of the buyer to try as many wines with diverse backgrounds in order to find a personal favorite. Whatever the celebration may be, cheers! Sláinte! Prost!