My local wine shop was out of Chandon etoile brut, which was next on the list of California sparkling wines to review before the New Year. They did have a few bottles of the etoile rose, so we took that home yesterday instead. This beautifully colored California sparkler will make a great addition to your holiday party. Delicately balancing the bold fruit of a red wine and the subtlety of a white, this wine presents itself to be extremely versatile. Rich with plum and dark cherry, it finished with a hint of nutmeg and vanilla for a toasty finish.

You should be able to find this wine at your better retailer, or from the the winery itself. With an order of $75 or more, you get free shipping if you are in a ‘good’ state.