Vintages Release: July 25, 2020
88
Pierre Sparr Crémant d’Alsace ‘Reserve’ Brut Non-Vintage
AOC Crémant d’Alsace, France $18.95 (388603) 12.5% alcohol
There are green hints to the light gold hue when poured. Aromas of baking brioche and citrus make way for a profusion of mousse that once settled reveals fine-bead bubbles endlessly winding their way to the top of the glass. It’s pleasant on the palate with a mélange of flavours including caramel, green apple and racy lemon citrus with the latter dominating the mouth-watering finish. The price is certainly on your side considering it’s produced Méthode Traditionnelle and it’s a ‘Reserve’ wine. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages Release: TBD 2020
The following 2019 Rocca Sveva Soave Classico Blanco is 100% Garganega that underwent gentle pressing then fermentation and maturation of 6 months in stainless steel tank. It hails from the original heartland of Soave, geographically designated and regulated as. ‘Soave Classico’.
91 
Rocca Sveva Soave Classico Blanco 2019
DOC Soave, Italy $15.95 12.5% alcohol
Aromas of green apple and ripe pear introduce a pleasing wash of palate flavour with apple, white grapefruit and wisps of Meyer lemon to the fore. This is a step up in quality, not your garden variety Soave; it lives up to its ‘Classico’ provenance. It’s medium bodied with good mouthfeel, flavourful, balanced, crisp and refreshing from cork pop to last drop. The finish is tangy and clean. Pour alongside pan-seared or grilled fish and seafood. (Vic Harradine)
90
Rocca Sveva Pinot Grigio 2019
DOC Garda, Italy $14.95 12.5% alcohol
Delicate peach, pear and floral notes can be coaxed from the glass as precursors to a creamy-smooth river of delicious fruit flavours with ripe yellow peach and ripe Bosc pear to the fore. It’s almost off-dry on the palate with a clean-up that leaves it balanced and beautiful on the finish and aftertaste. I’d be tempted to start happy hour with this, it doesn’t really need food, though light appetizers would be good pairings along with spicy Asian dishes. (Vic Harradine)