Monday, December 7, 2015

Fun with Sparkling Wine!

Try something fun for the holidays!

“Don’t ever let anyone dull your sparkle” – Sally Gilchrist
  
Holiday parties are in full swing and whether you are hosting friends or want to bring a fun gift as a party favor; sparkling wines are always appreciated this time of year. Sparkling wines are a cousin to Champagne and Prosecco.


A recent sampling featured a sparkling wine called Blanc de Bleu Cuvée Mousseux by Premium Vintage cellars (www.blancdebleu.com). The wine is an effervescent blue in color as a result of blueberries that are added to Chardonnay grapes.

 
Blanc de Bleu® Cuvée Mousseux

PositiveVines ‘HelpfulTip: Sparkling wine is made by not allowing the escape of gases created from the fermentation of sugar and yeast. The gases return into the wine and are released when you pop the cork, creating tiny bubbles. It can only be called Champagne if it comes from the Champagne region of France.

The Chardonnay grapes are harvested from Northern California in Mendocino County. Blanc de Bleu was created in 2006 as the winemakers challenged themselves to create something different. Thus the first sparkling blue wine was born! The sugar levels and alcohol content are low at 11%. It is a Brut style which is slightly dry and the hint of blueberry gives it a crisp and balanced taste.

This sparkling wine earned silver award status in 2012 at the BevStar Awards. Blanc de Bleu averages $15 per bottle at most DFW Market Street stores. Ordering online is a bit more expensive at $25 per bottle. Shop around for sales this time of year. And consider bulk ordering for special occasions. Lots of brides select this sparkling wine as their “something blue” for wedding receptions. Consider adding frozen blueberries to your wine glass for added flavor.

Grab a couple of bottles of Blanc de Bleu to take with you to your next holiday party. It’s a fun conversation starter and the wine pairs well with both appetizers and desserts.

Remember to drink what it is that makes you truly happy and always think positively!


Drink Responsibly!