We asked for recommendations from local experts Eric Tuverson of Moore Brothers Wine Company in Wilmington and Dean Cesario of Deerfield Fine Wines in Newark. Prices listed are per bottle.
Tuverson: Bele Casel Prosecco, $16
“I can’t imagine someone not liking this Prosecco, and it goes with anything you put on the table.”
Cesario: Domaine Saint Vincente Brut, $13
“For the champagne drinker who is really just starting out. It is not as dry as a true champagne. It has a lot of fruit to it, but good mineral, too, and just a hint of white grapefruit. What makes it unique is that it’s from New Mexico.”
Tuverson: Gasnier Cravantine Brut, $22
This pink sparkling wine is of the Chinon appellation from France’s Loire Valley. “The wine has a beautiful aroma of wild strawberries and red currants. It’s very fragrant.”
Cesario: Heidsieck & Co. Monopole Blue Top, $30
A true French Champagne, it is 70 percent Pinot Noir, 20 percent Pinot Meunier and 10 percent Chardonnay. “A nice assortment of fruit with a little bit of dryness. This is the first Champagne to get a 91 percent from Wine Enthusiast.”
Tuverson: Diebolt-Vallois Blanc de Blancs, $45
This French Champagne is made with 100 percent Chardonnay grapes. “It was my house wine when I was at Le Bec-Fin. It is very elegant, beautiful, with a refreshing acidity.”
Cesario: Perrier-Jouet Grand Brut, $45
“This is a unique Champagne. You will taste a little honey, some vanilla and citrus, but not overpowering. Just a hint of each.—TGM