#sparkling-wine

#sparkling-wine

The Willamette Valley had vineyards in the 1800s, but Prohibition and market forces kept it from becoming a true winemaking region until the 1960s, when rows of cool-climate grapes like pinot noir and chardonnay began to crawl across the Dundee and Tualatin Hills. A few wineries grew to more than 700 today, making the Willamette Valley a global wine sensation. Along the way, a handful of bottles helped define the valley's distinctive character.

There was much to celebrate at the Sonoma County Harvest Fair's 50th anniversary gala on Saturday, when more than 1,300 attendees many donned in their sparkliest cocktail attire gathered to sample award-winning wines and food from some of the region's top producers. The highlight of the event, which took place at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds in Santa Rosa, was the announcement of the top three sweepstakes wines in the professional wine competition.

Last week, I ended my book tour with an event at Elliott's in Edinburgh for the city's book festival. These tastings usually take place on a week night, so I tend to opt for three easy-drinking favourites. A kabinett riesling? Check. A fruity cotes du Rhone? Check. Then I spied a lambrusco. I love starting the evening with a joyous glass of something fizzy but, to my surprise, many members of the audience remarked how they didn't have the best memories of lambrusco.

"It's hard to get a group of people to agree on anything, but typically, people can always agree on value," he says. "You want to order something that overdelivers for the value and approachability."

I do feel older, though. So, as you read this, you can be sure that I am probably quite drunk on sparkling wine. There's scarcely a better excuse than a birthday, but I think we can agree that what you're likely to be drinking at any such event will vary greatly, depending on whether or not the birthday in question is your own.

Prosecco was my go-to drink during university, valued for its low price and sweetness. However, my taste has evolved towards wines with more acidity and complexity.

Provocativo has experienced 27% YOY growth as a result of increased direct-to-consumer availability in 40 states, expanded retail distribution, and on-premise partnerships.

Aldi's Specially Selected Chassaux et Fils Sparkling Orange Wine, available for 9.99, is part of a growing trend towards unique taste profiles and innovative wine offerings.