What Christmas would be complete without some festive bubbles for the table.  Hailing from Scandiano, which is just south of Reggio Emilia, Spergolino Bianco Classico Secco is made from a local mutation of sauvignon blanc.  While sauvignon blanc isn’t the most common varietals for sparkling wine, it is allowed in some place.  Given it’s tendency to be somewhat green, how does Spergolino Bianco Classico Secco 2012 compare to a still example from France or New Zealand?

Sight:  A moderate gold, with very small bubbles

Smell:  Gooseberry, hints of musk, and candied orange peel.  Hints of green apple and rock candy hide in the background

Sip:  It starts soft, but gets increasingly bright, with the many small bubbles swelling to a crescendo before sliding back to a smooth, rather heavy mouthfeel.  Flavors of green apple, lemon pith, and gooseberry all jump out.   There’s a hint of bitterness and green apple skin is definitely present.

Savor:  The ending moves from green apple skin towards a golden delicious apple with hints of orange peel.  The ending is subtle and moderate in length.

Sperogolino Bianco Classico Secco is certainly interesting and carries through some unique flavors thanks to it’s interesting make up as a Sauvignon Blanc relative.  The color is intriguing, and it carries through with a slightly different, and green, experience than most of the Brut Cavas and California sparkling out there right now.  If you want to have a change of pace, and like to stay drier, Spergolino Bianco Classico Secco is a fun choice for only $10.

Verdict:  Gooseberry, Green Apple, Orange, Small Bubbles
Price: $10
Scandiano, Italy
Available at Wine Library