Five irresistible sparklers from Wine Country

Ranging from $14 to $58, these bubblies include bruts, rosés and blanc de blancs.|
PEG MELNIK
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT

Here are five California sparklers with quite a range, priced from $14 to $58. They include bruts, rosés and blanc de blancs and all show well, proving that California sparklers rival the best of Champagne. Wine Country clearly takes its bubbles seriously.

Iron Horse, 2011 Brut X, 13.5 percent alcohol, $50. This is one of the liveliest sparklers you’ll ever come across, and it’s a modest price for the quality. It’s dry, with bright acidity and great minerality.

Korbel, N.V. California Champagne, 12 percent, $14. The chardonnay in this sparkler comes through. Notes of melon, pear and mineral. A tasty sparkler, and you can’t beat the price.

Scharffenberger,2007 Blanc de Blancs, 12 percent, $20. A full-bodied sparkler with bright apple and rich notes of brioche, caramel and hazelnut. A steal for the price. Long finish.

J NV Russian River Valley Brut Rosé, 12.5 percent, $38. This is a tasty sparkler with notes of strawberry, brioche and cream. Slightly earthly. Lingering finish.

Schramsberg, 2012 Brut Rosé, 13 percent, $44. This dry rosé is gorgeous. Notes of strawberry, brioche and almond. Lush. Nice mousse. Top rate.

UPDATED: Please read and follow our commenting policy:
  • This is a family newspaper, please use a kind and respectful tone.
  • No profanity, hate speech or personal attacks. No off-topic remarks.
  • No disinformation about current events.
  • We will remove any comments — or commenters — that do not follow this commenting policy.
Send a letter to the editor