Scharffenberger Brut

Great price for a brut this classically structured. Made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it’s dry and crisp, with a fine mousse that gives it a creamy smooth mouthfeel. The pineapple, raspberry and vanilla flavors are delicious.

This is a pale, dry sparkling wine with a robust pinot noir scent. The yeastiness leaves an impression of smoky richness, with a stony mineral note. Delicious with wood-roasted oysters.

Bright aromas of green apple and lime lead to vibrant, layered flavors of citrus, anise and creamy vanilla. Drink now.

Light, bright gold. Green apple and quinine on the citrus-accented nose. Very dry and nervy on the palate, which offers taut lemon and orchard fruit flavors and a hint of bitter herbs. Slightly pinched on the finish but there's good focus and cut here. This bubbly has a low 2.95 pH, which no doubt contributes to its racy character.

Okay, I’m not a huge fan of the retro label (a replica of the original 1981 label), but I sure do love the yeasty, traditional style of the wine, so I guess I’ll let it slide! Bold and doughy, with apple, canned pear and lemon notes.