Golden Globe Sparkling

I love awards shows, the glitz, the traditions, the hilariously under the influence celebrities, the excuse to watch 40 movies in a month and lets not forget endless rounds of bubbly.

The Golden Globes was a small chance for another round of sparkling wine however most of the party were drinking Champagne cocktails which rather ruins the ability to give tasting notes.



Deutz Marlborough Cuvee NV

Deutz is my very reliable "everday drinking" sparkling wine and of the mid range sparkling wines it is a real gem. As with Moet & Chandon expanding its reaches with Domaine Chandon to California and Western Australia so have Deutz Champagne expanded their brand name into New Zealand by partnering with Montana Wines to produce wine in the Marlborough region. Marlborough vineyards produce excellent Pinot and this Pinot Chardonnay blend is light and crisp with a clean acid end that makes a perfect aperitif at a price that allows you to keep drinking through the night (or festive season). $18 - $30 depending on volume; keep an eye out for Vintage Cellar deals as often a dozen will get you a free Magnum or discount on a high end Champagne. A Blanc de Blanc and Pinot Noir Cuvee are also available in select stores.



Monmousseau Brut Etoile

This is one of many mid range European imports from Douglas Lamb Wines. Monmousseau is made in the Loire and the cellars are carved out of the local caves ensuring stable temperatures required for sparkling wine production. It's a reasonably affordable $16-$20 a bottle but as this is made from Chenin Blanc with a strong fruity palate it is really not to my preferred tastes. Best with a cheese and fruit board, which makes it acceptable as an awards show drink but not for me (Sorry to who brought it along), those who like a sweeter wine will probably find this a very acceptable reasonably priced import and as most of the party were using it for Champagne cocktails this is more than an acceptable drop.