2010 YE Bubblies: 4 Tasted of 4

Happy New Year to everyone!

THE LINEUP - grouped by reds then white sparkling wines:

• Krimsekt Semi-sweet Red Sparkling Wine 2008, 89-1  --  V, Artyomovsk, Ukraine, #141655 $19.95
• Ca' Dei Mandorlie le Donne Dei Boschi Brachetto d’Acqui 2009,  88-1  --  V, Piedmont, Italy, #030536  $17.95

• Bellussi Belcanto Extra Dry Prosecco di Valdobbianne Superiore NV, 88-1  --  V, Valdobbianne, Italy, #053215 $16.95
• Segura Viudas Brut Reserva Cava Sparkling NV,  82  --  G,  Penedes, Spain, #158493  $14.55 
  (G - General Listing, V - Vintages, r-v - Rating-Value, g - gift)

TASTINGS:

KRIMSEKT SEMI-SWEET RED SPARKLING WINE NV, Ukraine, 11.5%  MS, #141655  $19.95  (Tasted December 31, 2010)  CS
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A Vintages release date ‘N/A’, described on the back label as“ … a deep, rich blend of Cabernet, Merlot and Saperavi grapes …”  My notes: Saperavi is a Russian grape variety used to bring colour and acidity to a blend. A deep colour of blackberries and a brambly scent of crushed blackberries amidst a shower of tiny bubbles that subside quickly leaving a firm spritz. The first sip has black fruit flavours and a touch of steely mineral giving a clean, fresh impression. Any sweetness is balanced by acid so the finish has a dryness masking any carry over to a long finish. Serve chilled - this went well with a rare filet mignon and would accompany any grilled beef entrée. Cellaring for a few years should be OK.  89

CA' DEI MANDORLI LE DONNE DEI BOSCHI BRACHETTO D'ACQUI 2009, Piedmont, Italy, 5.5%  MS, #030536   $17.95  (Tasted December 31, 2010)  CS

A Vintages release on November 27, 2010 described anonymously (undated) as “This pretty red bubbly is bursting with aromas and flavours of ripe strawberries. A rare, red, moderately sweet sparkling wine that is an exceptional match for chocolate, particularly when made with at least 70% cacao. It even works with dishes like grilled calamari and beef carpaccio.”  My notes: A bright raspberry colour with a fine rim of foam and continuous fine bubbles and spritz. A delicate nose of crushed strawberries tinged with red berries - all together a courteous (lo alcohol) sipper meant for anyone. The first sip is mindful of fresh crushed cherries, soft on the palate and sweet edged carrying into a long finish. Sip or pair with a buffet tray of chocolates, marzipan creams, or even toasts with salsa.  88  

BELLUSSI BELCANTO EXTRA DRY PROSECCO DI VALDOBBIADENE SUPERIORE NV, Valdobbianne, Italy, 11.5%  XD, #053215  $16.95  (Tasted December 31, 2010)  CS

A Vintages release on November 27, 2010 rated 88 and described by John Szabo (www.wine align.com) (Oct. 10, 2009) as “A pale, delicate, pear and citrus blossom-scented prosecco that's just off-dry, round, soft and creamy-textured but with lively acidity. Surprising length and depth of flavour, too. Tasty aperitif.”  My notes: A profusion of all size energetic bubbles, a touch of yeast on a faint lime and apple perfumed nose, a light straw colour and a refreshing spritzy tang on the first sip. Flavours of faint crushed lemon seed that leave a dry tanginess to a finish of mineral and citrus with staying power on the palate. This was great with Alaskan King crab legs and drawn butter and should be with any seafood. A drink now - keep only enough on hand for impromptu celebrations.   88
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SEGURA VIUDAS BRUT RESERVA CAVA SPARKLING NV, Penedes, Spain, 11.5%  D, #158493  $14.55  (Tasted January 1, 2011)  CS

A General listing described anonymously (undated) as “Straw yellow colour; Toasty, yeasty nose with nutty/cooked apple notes; Dry, rich, medium - full bodied, with flavours of nuts and biscuits; long and creamy finish on palate. Serve with roast chicken; mushroom risotto; brunch; aperitif.”  My notes:  A light straw blond with a profusion of bubbles on pouring settling into a steady stream from the bottom of the glass. A spritz softens each sip supported by a mild acid and light flavours of apple strudel. Softness starts and ends the finish with mild uninteresting flavours that fade quickly. A crowd quaffer unless they’re accustomed to extra dry bright cavas then a disappointment. OK with a chicken mushroom pizza, half side with anchovies, half side broccoli. A drink now.  82