There's no better place in America to conjure up a craving for a cold, fizzy glass-o-something than Savannah, Georgia. And in August, it's status quo to have a glass in hand at all times (except at work...or at church...or while driving.) Well, you get the point.
As a former resident of the Peach State, I had many a summer to contemplate the perfect grape-flavored refresher, and it was a tough call. I must admit, I did resort to mojitos and martinis at times, but in the end it was the discovery of something all-too perfect for those sweaty summer days. I discovered a drinkable oasis, somewhere between beer fizz and champagne pearls lies the land of FRIZZANTE.
Frizzante is more of a descriptor than a type of wine, since lots of different wines can be "frizzante" just as long as they capture the tingly fizz sensation, which makes them your best friend in 200% humidity. Vinho Verde (from Portugal), and Albarino (from Spain) are notorious for their frizziness, and I've got a few to share before summer is over...
(Note: you can't always tell a wine will have the "frizzante" quality just by looking at the bottle or on the label. Frizzante wines come in different shapes and colors, so if you don't want to decode, just ask your local wine department geek if he has any "frizzante whites" and he should take you straight to the right stuff).
Now, for your shopping list:
Broadbent Vinho Verde (Portugal) $8 - easy to find at Whole Foods. Trader Joes has an even cheaper version...just ask the wine guy. Worth every penny!
Alianca White Blend Vinho Verde de Portugal $9 - another WF find. I prefer the TJ's version for it's drinkability and affordability, but this is still darn good stuff.Pazo Serantellos 2008 Albarino, (Rias Baixas, Spain) $12 - lemon-limey with a nice body and hint of fizz.
Go get your frizz on!
