If you enjoy sparkling wine but, like me, cannot afford to plunk down $40+ for a fine Champagne very often, it is a good time to be alive! Very good sparkling wines from all Italy are appearing on our shelves that are not only affordable, they are impressive, smart buys that will leave you very satisfied.

Olivier Pasquini, who brings us Hi! Prosecco D.O.C.stopped by the store to meet and share his Prosecco. At around $10, this offers a fine value. From Italy, north of Venice, made from the glera grape, it is a light and crisp sparkling wine, done in the extra dry style (not quite as dry as “brut”). The sparkle and lightness lift delicate, fresh fruit notes that make this an ideal wine to serve with finger foods. Mimosas? Sure! 

Collalto Prosecco Extra Dry D.O.C.G.is another favorite that we have had the pleasure of offering for many years now. Isabella Collalto oversees this estate, directing her 150 hectares of vineyards, with family roots that go back to 958 AD. Long lasting bubbles, full flavored and crisp, this is an elegant wine that is great on its own and pairs well with seafood, antipasti, or try this with sushi. And priced at around $15! 

Collalto offers a rose sparkling wine that is unique to the estate. Back in the 1920s and 30s Professor Luigi Manzoni, a researcher and ampeloprapher chose Collalto vineyards to plant some varietal crosses he was working on. The Collalto Rose v.s.q. Extra Dry is the result of one of these crosses, Manzoni Moscato 13.0.25 grape. Delicate, long lasting bubbles, intensely fragrant, dry and refreshing with just a hint of sweetness, it is a beautiful wine to drink with your friends on a Florida afternoon. Around $18. 

So if it is to mark an occasion, celebrate something or someone special or just enjoy with family and friends, sparkling wines make everyday a celebration!

Lenny Bell, Wine Consultant at ABC Fine Wine & Spirits in Sarasota. Follow me on Twitter @abcwinelennyb.