Fans of Beaujolais, you will be seduced ! A traditional approach (semi-carbonic Beaujolais maceration), produced a gamay bursting with fresh fruit character. This is what Beaujolais Primeur (Nouveau) should be ; not the bland/boring disappointing reds we receive every year in November ! Fresh, well balanced and typically light, serve this young easy drinking red with grilled chicken. Ideally decant this cuvée to evaporate residual CO2.
Country : France
Price : 22,55 $
Code SAQ: 11459976
Score : 88
A hot and dry vintage, 2018 produced reds that should stand the test of time. This Morgon from Lapierre confirms the great potential. Deeply coloured, the nose bursts with red and black berry fruit enhanced by a subtle animal scent. Lots of extract, great structure, surprisingly fresh acidity and perfect balance. This flavourful red will improve nicely over the next decade. A seductive Morgon perfect for veal fillets with porcini mushrooms
Country : France
Price : 36,50 $
Code SAQ: 11305344
Score : 92
In 2017 the Beaujolais commune of Morgon excelled. Lapierre’s cuvée confirms the high quality level. Bursting with ripe fresh fruit, this youthful light bodied red is surprisingly tasty. Good extract and superb balance. The nose brimms with spicy red fruit scents. Good aging potential: 4 to 6 years. This charming red will marry well with roasted chicken with mushrooms.
Country : France
Price : 35 $
Code SAQ : 11305344
Score : 91
Made entirely with Pinot Noir, this excellent Crémant reveals scents of green apple and toasted bread. Fairly high acidity and lingering bitterness add freshness and length. Lovely creamy froth in this great value sparkler.
Country : France
Price : 25 $
Code SAQ : 11565015
Score : 88
Since most Champagnes are expensive/overpriced, it becomes obvious that seeking out sparkling wines from California, Burgundy, Spain or Italy should be your priority during this upcoming Holiday season !
All the products recommended in this article have been crafted in the traditionnal Champagne method : a second fermentation in the bottle to produce a lovely creamy froth from tiny bulles.
Here are my suggestions of fine sparklers for the Holiday season. All of these fine bubblies should be readily available in many SAQ outlets. Cheers !
SPARKLERS :