From: Western Cape, South Africa
Price: $30
Serve with: A celebration
Champagne quality from South Africa? The idea would have been laughable a few decades ago, but it's reality now. This exquisite sparkling wine has both the quality and style of a fine Champagne. The price is comparable to some lower-end Champagnes, but this pinot noir-chardonnay blend is comparable to the wines of the finer houses. It has the toasty, nutty, fresh-baked-bread character of Champagne, without the excess fruitiness found in many California sparkling wines. It's more in the bold, full-bodied style of a Bollinger than the delicate style of a Taittinger. It's perfect for a New Year's celebration.
—Michael Dresser, The Baltimore Sun