The letter I received from California’s J Vineyards and Winery, along with a couple sample bottles of bubbles, mentioned that it’s sparkling wine season. And before I could object to this compartmentalization of my favorite category of wines to an October/November/December troika, this missive finished with a flourish: “We’re certain that once you taste these bubblies, you’ll agree that every season should be sparkling wine season.” You go, J!
J Vineyards and Winery: Two Recommended Bottles
Their Brut Rosé (suggested CA retail: $38) is richly textured and finishes with an unabashed salvo of the freshest of red fruit flavors. It’s very fruity, yet extremely dry. Speaking of extremes, it’s extremely easy to drink. I won’t give the back-handed compliment that is a “crowd-pleaser”, as that assumes all your party guests are either overly fussy or unadventurous. I know you, as a host, cater to a much more sophisticated yet less judge-y set. And lest you think the price a bit dear, a quick spin on wine-searcher.com confirms you should be able to find it closer to $30. Which seems about right to me.
The Cuvée 20 Brut (suggested CA retail is $28 but you can find deals leaning towards $20) resembles it’s pink partner in combining elegance and approachability. Both would be brunch-tastic. I’m also fond the the simple “J” on the label rather than something more ostentatious and elaborately adorned. And I’m not just saying that because my name starts with “J”. Well, maybe that plays a small part in shaping my opinion.
For more on the enjoyment of bubbles, listen to my podcast with fellow sparkling rosé fan(atic), the fantastic and talented author, wine educator, and TV host, Leslie Sbrocco:
Thanks for the kind words Jameson. Cheers to you this this New Year’s Eve!
Thanks, Taylor! To you as well.
I love that bottle! I would grab it just because of that perfect J.
Pam,
Everyone whose name starts with “J” should have a bottle in their fridge. Or get one as a gift.
Best,
Jameson
What a sexy bottle and design 🙂
Miryam,
Agreed.
Jameson
I think I do a fair job of making sparkling wine season a year round event – bubbles are some of my favorites.
I will definitely keep these bottles in mind…
Kristina,
Thank you for doing your share to enjoy bubbles year-round!
Best,
Jameson
Indeed a curvy and cute bottle. Lovely design!
Enjoyed the Podcast. I live in a repressive state (Utah) and I am always handed the wine list and my dates are always given the beer list. Love that bottle too. And if Riesling is breakfast wine, I will be a very happy woman! Chateau St. Michelle is my favorite Riesling.
Michelle,
Thanks for listening to the podcast. Coincidentally, I lived in Utah back in the mid-90s. I was a ski bum living in Alta. So I know all about the liquor laws there. Ste. Michelle also makes a nice dry Riesling that’s priced the same as the sweet one that’s worth checking out.
Best,
Jameson