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Affordable decadence defines Spanish Cavas. Bubbles without the trouble; tastiness without the tawdry price. But Spanish Cava can be a mystery. Weird grape names, little hype. If the bottle doesn’t read “Champagne”many people overlook this sparkling segment, even if it costs less than $15. But that’s simply a shame. Read more: Segura Viudas Aria Brut Cava A light sparkling wine from Italy’s Veneto region, sipping prosecco is a great way to start any meal or drink with a salad. It has refreshing acidity, with tinges of grapefruit, white peach and green apple. Finishes clean and elegant. 3.5 stars out of 5 Sweetness=2 out of 10 (dry to sweet) $14 Blackberry, cherry, bittersweet chocolate, and a slight warming tinge of vanilla, washed down with a tannin structure worthy of a cabernet. This California take on sparkling shiraz is refreshing, and even tasty when warm.4 stars out of 5. Sweetness=1 out of 10 (dry to sweet). $15 The uber-fragrant Muscat grape thrives in the hills of Italy’s Piedmont region, where artisans produce the effervescent and sweet Moscato d’Asti. It’s related to Asti Spumante, but only as you are to your hick cousins in West Virginia. Low in alcohol, these flowery dessert substitutes taste soft and lush, like this one from Batasiolo. The roses, effusive peaches, apricot Read more: Batasiolo 2007 Moscato d’Asti Many Moscatos come from Italy’s Asti region but this one originates from the Chieti province in Abruzzo. Loaded with peaches, tangerine and honey, this sweet sparkler satisfies a craving but also pairs well with Asian food.3.5 stars out of 5. Sweetness=6 out of 10 (dry to sweet). $10 Flowery and perfumey, with kiwi, raspberry and a clean, crisp aftertaste. Sweetness: 3 out of 10 (dry to sweet) Rating: 4 stars out of 5. Price: $10 Availability: Grocery stores This Australian sparkling wine is on the sweeter side, but fantastic with anything spicy. Soft, lemon-lime and a toasty finish. 3 out of 5. Sweetness=3 out of 10 (dry to sweet). $11 Dry, earthy and bursting with citrus and herbs, it’s an outstanding deal from Spain.4.5 out of 5. Sweetness=2 out of 10 (dry to sweet). $11 The best deal I uncovered this year. From Spain. Delicious, light-bodied and toasty, green apple sprinkled with lime, slight dirty earthiness. 3.5 stars out of 5. Sweetness=2 out of 10 (dry to sweet). $11 Clean, refreshing tangerine and lime, with a ginger spiciness. Rating: 4 stars out of 5 Sweetness: 2 out of 10 (dry to sweet) Price: $12 Availability: Grocery stores |
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