This month’s pick is all about trying new things…and January is the perfect month in Charleston to try a type of wine that most of you haven’t…Pink Bubbles.  Yes, I said Pink Bubbles!  Sparkling Rose wines are some of the most versitile wines out there…they can be crisp, clean, and dry on one hand, while heavier and fruitier on the other! From a celebration of something new to a quiet dinner at home, sparkling wines deliver a great companion to any occasion! From Salmon with Wild Mushroom Risotto to a delicious combination of Triple Cream Cheese and Dark Chocolate…a Pink Sparkling Wine can complement a variety of meals perfectly!  At Cafe Medley, we have a number of great choices, and here are two of our favorites:

Weingut Markus Huber “Hugo” Rosé Sparkling from Austria

This delightful sparkler from Austria is made up of Pinot Noir and Zweigelt.  Zweigelt is the most widely planted grape varietal in Austria and is quickly becoming a favorite of people looking for an alternative to Pinot Noir with more smokey/earthy tones.  “Hugo” is light salmon in color with reddish gold hints in the light.  A delicate, fresh and very animating nose of fruit and spice with hints of fresh cherries and forest berries.  There is a slight note of citrus as well.  Dry, fruit-driven yet creamy on the palate, finely woven with elegant acidity and minerality.

Perfect with any variety of fish, chicken, and dry, nutty cheeses.

Secco Italian Bubbles Rose from Italy

Secco is made up of 60% Glera (Prosecco) and 40% Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir).
This delicious sparkling rose’ has notes of rose petals, fruits, cherry and raspberry yet maintains a distinctly  dry note, typical of great Prosecco. Excellent with hard and soft cheeses (including soft goat), prosciutto, dark chocolate, raspberries, chocolate covered berries, shellfish, just about any type of fish, sushi, grilled steak, spicy sausage, foie gras, nuts, olives, and paté.  Excellent compliment to spicy Asian dishes and, well, just about anything!