The Tasting Panel magazine

December 2014

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28  /  the tasting panel  /  december 2014 SPARKLING WINE PROSECCO IS A POPULAR AND AFFORDABLE OPTION TO MORE EXPENSIVE HOLIDAY SPARKLING WINES A SPARKLING INTRODUCTION Introducing Ménage à Trois Prosecco DOC, Italy (SRP $15), made from 100% Glera grapes from Northeast Italy, is the newest addition to this family of fun, delicious and affordable wines, which includes Ménage à Trois Midnight Dark Red Blend as well as Ménage à Trois vodka. On the nose, vanilla-lemon custard takes a stand and the lilting lingering perfume of white flowers adds a sweet tone. Tickling, energetic bubbles dissipate to a dry mineral middle, dotted with green apple tartness. Delicate notes of orange and lime rind, honeydew and lanolin are part of the loveliness to its crisp finish. 91 The Life of the Italy, is the newest addition to this family of fun, delicious and affordable wines, which includes Ménage à Trois Midnight Dark Red Blend as well as Ménage à Trois vodka. On the nose, vanilla-lemon custard takes a stand and the lilting lingering perfume of white flowers adds a sweet tone. Tickling, energetic bubbles dissipate to a dry mineral middle, dotted with green apple tartness. Delicate notes of orange and lime rind, honeydew and lanolin are part of the loveliness to its crisp finish. by Meridith May S parkly dresses. Twinkly lights. Bing Crosby crooning. Have I set the holiday scene for you yet? Not quite —one very important thing is missing: Bubbly! That's right: nothing sets the holiday mise- en-scène quite like some sparkling, and this year, more and more consumers are exploring Prosecco, seeking lemon vivaciousness and a wash of delicate bubbles—all at a value-driven price point. Primarily produced in the district of Valdobbiadene in the Veneto region, Prosecco's popularity has recharged palates with its drinkability, price point and better selection of quality brands, securing firm positioning on wine-by-the-glass lists. The grape variety is Glera, but reference to the Prosecco "varietal" is widely accepted. The wines are not aged, as are labor- and time- intensive méthode champenoise sparklers, which helps keep prices in check. Instead, Prosecco goes through the Charmat method, which offers up a youthful freshness. This method forces the second fermentation to happen in a large stainless steel tank prior to bottling, rather than in the bottle. With lower alcohol levels than still wines and an innate ability to turn a cocktail into a textural, pleasurable experience on the pal- ate (where would the Bellini be without it?), Prosecco deserves a nod for the holidays. Party

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