During the holiday season, seems like, everyone is looking for the best bargains being offered. From gifts to groceries the name of the game is… bargain.
I have to admit; I do love a deal. But, I am slightly finicky about – so-called – bargain wines. So, what about wine; are most wine buyers breaking the bank or merely settling for a few cheap bottles to offer at the festivities?
Likely, the answer to the question is, both.
If you are like me, there will be a variety of guest you will be entertaining. Certainly, not all of them have an affinity for wine – but, when offered will appreciate a glass. Generally speaking, whatever you provide, most guest will be appreciative. However, there may also be the snob-sippers in attendance. We all know the self-proclaimed wine aficionado that believes the value inside the bottle equates to the price tag on the outside.
Wine purchases for entertaining can be quite costly. However, it doesn’t have to be. Finding delicious wine with broad appeal at bargain prices is possible.
The Find
On a recent shopping trip to a warehouse store, I witnessed multiple customers fill their cart with numerous bottles of one a particular wine. As a result, I meandered in the wine section, almost stalkerish like for an extended period to find out what was trending amongst the shoppers. Admittedly, I was indeed a bit surprised and hesitant to grab a bottle after noticing the very modest price tag on what appeared to be the favorite.
Once I popped the cork and took a sip, I discovered what I believe to be one of the best examples of a value-priced bottle of sparkling wine I have ever tasted. Kirkland Signature (Costco) Asolo Prosecco Superiore is priced at $8 per bottle (depending on your location), and offers the quality taste of a much more expensive bubbly.
Tasting Notes:
This bone-dry sparkling wine is crisp with fine bubbles. Bright citrus, pear, and white floral aromas. Tart green apples, acacia, white peach, and citrus on the palate, finishing with notes of yeast and mineral.
What to Pair:
Prosecco is very versatile with food and an excellent wine for entertaining. Therefore, I recommend serving it chilled as an aperitif or an accompaniment with raw or grilled oysters, a charcuterie board with cured meats and creamy cheeses or salt based snacks like chips and pretzels.
Sparkling Wine Tip:
When selecting a sparkling wine for a large gathering, above all, choose one that offers nice character, and balance to have overall appeal. Stick with budget friendly bottles, there is no need to break the budget. In conclusion, whether experienced wine drinkers or once-in-awhile sippers, everyone can enjoy and appreciate wine that is delicious.
Prosecco grapes must be grown and processed in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia and the Veneto regions of Italy. This specification is called denominazione di origine controllata (DOC), or “controlled designation of origin” which is a quality assurance measure for certain Italian products, such as wines, cheeses and balsamic vinegar.
-Costco Connection
Kirkland Signature™ Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG is denominazione di origine controllata (DOCG), guaranteeing the highest-quality-grapes, and is the highest classification of Italian wines.
