Margaret Swaine’s Wine Picks: Bubblies

Margaret Swaine

There are good bubblies available to ring in the New Year whatever your budget.  Find these sparklers via www.WineAlign.com/MargaretsPicks.

 Codorniu Brut Classico Trio Pack  $10.95 (86 Points)

This trio of 200mL bottles are all about fun and value. From Spain, made in the traditional ‘champagne’ method, this bubbly is fresh, medium bodied and fairly dry with decent soft fruit flavours. The twist open top is easy to pop off for a swig while dancing. Or use to make individual sparkling cocktails by adding a splash of fruit liqueur to a flute before pouring.

Cuvée Catharine Brut LCBO $29.95 (90 Points)

A medium full bodied blend of chardonnay and pinot noir, this dry sparkler made in the traditional method has spent 30 months aging on the lees. There’s a nice touch of toast throughout and good depth of fruity-citrus flavour with mineral notes. Have with caviar or oysters as a special treat. Or add a dollop of cabernet franc icewine for a pretty and festive all Canadian Blushing Kir.

Piper-Heidsieck Brut  $49.95 (91 Points)

Made in a lively, elegant style this true Champagne brand was first created in 1785. The House style has always been crisp yet approachable with charm and focus. Lightly toasty, medium bodied with a fresh floral and apple bouquet, there’s a good tang of citrus fruit on the palate. The overall impression is delicate, fresh and quite light on the palate with intriguing secondary flavours that keep you returning to the glass.