From the Garden of France

The holiday season is upon us and it’s the most popular time of year for sparkling wine. Notice I didn’t say champagne. Champagne is a sparkling wine but not all sparkling wine is champagne. Only wine that comes from the Champagne region of France can be called champagne, otherwise, even if it’s made in the Méthode Traditionnelle, it is sparkling wine. That said, it’s the best time of year for all manner of sparkling wine. Parties, dinners, celebrations, ringing in the New Year all these occasions call for the festive flavors (and look) that sparkling wines impart; none more so than the Domaine Thomas Touraine AOC Sparkling Rosé.

The Touraine region encompasses two of the best known Loire Valley appellations - Chinon and Vouvray - and is dotted with great châteaux from bygone regimes. The area produces red, white, rosé and sparkling wines. For white wines, Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc are the preferred grapes while red wines are made from Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir. (Note: There is some Malbec and Chardonnay also grown in the region as well as Pineau d'Aunis, which is heavily scented and lends spice to red wines.) Rosé may be made with Gamay or either of the Cabernets.

Thomas Yves & Eric Touraine AOC Sparkling Rosé (20.50)
The Domaine Thomas Touraine Sparkling Rosé is made with Gamay in the traditional champagne method and features a vibrant pink color that seems joyous just being in the glass. The nose is gentle yet complex with very light raspberry flavor. There’s a fresh acidity in the flavor that comes through when each little bubble bursts on the tongue. Serve chilled as an aperitif or with dessert. Can also be paired with appetizers, such as sushi rolls or mini-quiche, to bezazz your holiday soiree.

The bottle makes a beautiful presentation as a gift, the glass makes a beautiful presentation for a toast and the wine makes a beautiful presentation on the palate: what more could you want from a sparkling wine?