Grape(s): primarily Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
Producer: Mumm Napa
Where: available from most wine retailers
Holiday weekends are a great time to step up to the bubbly in honor of someone or something special. Having toured the Mumm house in Reims last year, I was curious to try the Napa version. I have to say it's pretty good. The fruit is riper. Brioche and green apple combine for an overripe aroma refreshed with a balance of juicy pineapple, pear and orange peel. The particularly high acidity of this dry selection combine well with notes of vanilla and chopped baking nuts (walnut, pecan) making it simultaneously crisp and creamy: a cool flavor dichotomy achieved by high quality sparkling wines like this one. The light body keeps it afloat and easy pleasing - a delight that flexes for special occasions or a simple deck chair evening with a slow summer sunset.