We all love our bubblies, so, we thought it would be fun to compare some domestic sparklers against Champagne.
Christmas Eve we did Brut. Christmas day was Brut Rose'.
The Bruts: 2007 Argyle vs. NV Aubry Premier Cru
The Rose': Mumm Napa Brut Rose' vs. Domaine Chandon Etoile Rose'.
The domestic wines were tasted first both days. The impressions were similar in both cases.
All the wines were excellent. The domestic wines presented more up front fruit than the French. The Champagnes displayed more "yeastiness" and minerality. Also, the Champagne bubbles were slightly smaller and more elegant and the finish on the Champagnes was longer and more satisfying. But I'm really "splitting" hairs here. Would I notice these differences if I had the wines, say, a week apart vs. "side by side"? Maybe. Maybe not.
Here's another thing: Argyle Brut - $24/Aubry - $45. Mumm - $20/Chandon - $39.
My daughter Becky and her husband, Paul come in with the two babies for New Year, so the whole family will be together New Year's Day. I'm thinking this tasting scenario will be replayed, maybe with some different selections.
My take: I preferred the Champagnes over the domestic wines in both cases. Everyone didn't feel as strongly as I did about that. But are they worth the extra price? That's always the question.
Happy New Year everyone!
Tom
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