One last bang for the 4th of July, and it’s a sparkler.  To compliment the white sparkler, it only seemed appropriate to pop open a rosé sparkler, and celebrate the red, white, and blue in style.  With Charles Shaw’s reputation for producing great wines, it only seemed worth while to try out their Italian offering, Secco Italian Bubbles Pinot Noir Brut.

Sight:  A more orange hue of pink, and the number of bubbles are relatively few.

Smell:  The nose is very subtle, and pulls in cherry and hints of candied strawberries (almost like red vines!).  Touches of rhubarb, more candied red fruits, and minerality come out slowly.  There’s a hint of wet stone to the feel of it.  The nose is very tight.

Sip:  Despite the appearance in the glass, it’s actually quite fizzy.  The body is light and pops well, but the flavors are similar to the nose, very subtle.  Hints of strawberry, cherry, and touches of minerals come through.  The sweetness is non-existent.

Savor:  The ending is short, keeps a bit of cherry and strawberry.  Hints of bitterness leave it wanting.

Secco Italian Bubbles Pinot Noir Brut is ok, but definitely more old school than new.  The flavors here lean into deep minerality, and drag through a lack of fruit that’s borderline monotonous.   However, as style goes, it makes sense.   Come into Secco Italian Bubbles Pinot Noir Brut with low expectations, and you won’t find yourself disappointed.

Verdict:  Red Vines, Cherries, Wet Stone, Light
Rating: 71
Price: $13 [This Bottle Was Received as a Sample]
Veneto, Italy

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