A direction
Something to celebrate with
Bubbles, from gently sweet to crisp and dry.
Why this works
Sparkling wine feels like an occasion. Moscato d'Asti is light and sweet; traditional-method sparkling is dry and elegant.
What to look for on the label
- Moscato d'Asti
- Marlborough traditional-method sparkling
Moscato d'Asti is inexpensive; traditional-method costs more.
Producers who make it
Bricco dei FioriSanto Stefano Belbo, PiedmontSteep Moscato vineyards above the Belbo valley and a Moscato d'Asti that tastes of just-picked grapes.Twin Shingle EstateRenwick, MarlboroughStony riverbed soils in the Wairau Valley and a Sauvignon Blanc with more texture than most.Kettle Creek VineyardSouthern Valleys, near Blenheim, MarlboroughClay slopes and a Pinot Noir that is silky and bright.