When it Comes to Wine ... Pink Bubbles for Valentine's Day

Wine Director John Toigo

There is nothing like celebrating with bubbles, and on Valentine's Day, those bubbles must be pink. Though Champagne is the classic choice, there are some sparkling wines from Italy that are worthy of your consideration.

One of the best benefits of drinking Italian sparkling wines instead of Champagne is value. One of the best values on our list is:


Mazzolino, Brut, Rose, Oltrepo Pavese, Lombardy NV
Made in the Champagne method, or Metodo Classico, this sparkler exhibits fresh strawberries, a touch of delicate cherry, and awash with the fragrance of rose petals.

If you want to truly impress, try this:

Bellavista, “Grand Cuvee”, Brut, Rose, Franciacorta, Lombardy 2006
With flavors of white strawberries, almost dried floral tones, and aroma of freshly baked bread. Also made in the Metodo Classico, this wine showcases the complexity of age with the vibrant components of youth. This Italian sparkling wine truly competes with the great vintage Champagnes of the world, and at half the price.

I've got a bottle waiting for you,

John Toigo
Wine Director