Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Two Reasons for Bubbly


By Maureen Petrosky


The image of almost two hundred people surviving a plane crash and walking on water in the Hudson River was enough reason to toast. Throw in the historical inauguration of President Obama and that makes two reasons. Not that popping bubbly needs to be justified in my home, but for those of you who just adore teensy bubbles and need an excuse to indulge, this was definitely your week. With so many to choose from how do we pick the perfect toast to wonder and hope in ‘09?

While Champagne is a classic choice, sparkling wine from the good ol’ U.S. of A, California especially, can be just as elegant and pours up yet another reason to be proud to be an American. While Korbel “Special Inaugural Cuvee” California Champagne from the Russian River Valley was the bubbly poured at Tuesday’s Inauguration luncheon (along with Duckhorn Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc and Goldeneye Pinot Noir –both from California too), my pick would have been bubbly from another the American icon. Schramsberg Vineyards has history dating back to 1862. The vineyard was shut down during prohibition but revived in 1965 with the sweat and loyalty to family and the love of wine. While they have plenty of stellar sips, try this one on for size:

Schramsberg’s Mirabelle Brut Rose, $25- In an adorable bubble gum pink label, this bubbly is dressed to party and pours up a stunning sparkling rose. Here’s to you!