Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/41419
GUEST EDITOR KATE WEBBER of Webber Restaurant Group, Groton, MA OTHER BUBBLES Sparkling wine can sometimes come from the most surprising of places. Here are some interesting versions of bubbles from regions around the world that deserve a closer look. —Kate Webber Frisk 2010 "Prickly" Riesling, Alpine Valleys, Victoria, Australia ($10) This Riesling has just enough bubbles to be "prickly," but plenty of fl avor to pack a punch. Full of ripe peaches and pears with a hint of sweet orange and fl owers, this wine starts off-dry but fi nishes light and lively, never heavy or overly sweet. A perfect fi rst drink on a late-summer evening, or try it during dinner with shellfi sh ceviche. OLD BRIDGE CELLARS Desiderio NV Jeio Cuvée Rosé, Veneto, Italy ($16) Made from a blend of Pinot Noir and Merlot, this rosé shows both structure and elegance. The fl avors of strawberries, cranberries, red apple skin and roses stand up beautifully to the bubbles without becoming overpowering or overripe. This wine is excellent with crisp salads, espe- cially anything with citrus sauces. VIAS IMPORTS Westport Rivers 2005 RJR Brut, Westport, Massachusetts ($27) For those who think Massachusetts can't make wine, take a look at Westport Rivers and their RJR Brut, the perfect balance between fruit, toast and min- erality. With fl avors of golden apples, lemons, pears and buttered sour- dough toast, the RJR pairs beautifully with roasted littleneck clams stuffed with cornbread and parsley. Gramona 2005 Imperial Gran Reserva, Penedès, Spain ($32) This vintage cava is as serious as any champagne: full- bodied and complex with rich, nutty fl avors of baked apples, vanilla, pears, and bloomy rind. The Gramona Imperial will pair with everything from light white fi sh and steamed mussels to heavier roasted chicken and soft cheeses. This is not a wine for the light-hearted, and it defi nitely wants a meal. ERIC SOLOMON SELECTIONS/EUROPEAN september 201 1 / the tasting panel / 63 The Tasting Panel Magazine's SEAL OF EXCELLENCE Our Seal of Excellence is awarded to products that we feel deserve special merit. When a brand breaks a category barrier, offers a novel fl avor profi le or is just a stand-out character, THE TASTING PANEL will distinguish it with our new honor. This award is our acknowledgement of excellence. Bernardus 2007 Pinot Noir, Rosella's Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County ($75) Cherry spiced and subdued, this fl oral pretty-girl red, with fruit chosen from three small blocks planted with clone 777, Pommard clone and the celebrated Pisoni clone, is a world apart from many of the larger-than-life Pinots from this region. Her acidity is ideal, and her perfumey cinnamon-dusted rose petals are grounded by a hint of earth. Tasting Panel Publisher's Pick 96 Points "Head Over Heels in Love" 123 Certified Organic Tequila (Uno Dos Tres) EU Organic 123Tequila.com