WINE WISDOM

Chelsey’s Picks for Bubbles

Chelsey Malstrom,

Seven Sisters Spirits, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota

Contarini Blanc de Blancs Extra Dry

My pick for affordable bubbly is this blend of Glera (the grape used in prosecco), Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio with a touch of Pinot Bianco. The Contarini winery devotes 80% of all its production to prosecco using predominantly Glera–a cost-effective way to get prosecco goodness! Light, bright and dry, this sparkling wine has a minerality expression– perfect for fun summer cocktails or enjoying solo.

Cava Emendis Nu Allonge Brut

This Cava (Spanish sparkling wine) hails from near Barcelona and is a blend of three native Spanish grapes: Xarel-lo, Macabeu and Parellada. Rich in color and flavor, Cava is a good mix of fresh citrus, while being grounded with nice soft oak notes. Enjoy the fresh brightness with refreshing orange and almond on the finish. Not quite sure which Champagne to buy? Use this simple guide to help you with your purchase!

Cheers! Chelsey Malstrom

Classic Bubbly Cocktails

Enjoy two of my favorite Champagne cocktails. Perfect for summer entertaining on the deck.

Coupe DeVille

1 shot pear vodka ½ shot fresh lemon juice ½ shot of pear liqueur 1 dash of bitters 1 Tbsp. honey (or agave syrup) (Shake the above ingredients with ice) Pour into a Champagne flute Fill the rest of the Champagne flute with bubbles.

French 75

1 shot gin ½ shot fresh lemon juice Fill rest of the Champagne flute with bubbles Garnish with a cherry (Ice is optional)