Based on a recent report by Harpers (http://www.harpers.co.uk/news/news-headlines/12009-more-regions-look-to-sparkling.html), it seems that there is a growth in demand for Sparkling wines. Considering the current economic climate, I question what people worldwide are so upbeat about.
According to the report, it says, "Sparkling sales grew 11.6% by value in the off-trade, while Champagne grew by just 1.2% in the same period (Nielsen, year to March 1, 2012). Star performers included Italian wines, up 48%, while Chilean and English were up by 26% each. French sparklers from outside Champagne grew 12.5% too".
Coming back not long ago from London and Italy, I must say that both countries have been doing a great drop in penetrating the bubbly market. English bubblies are of exceptional value and rival that of Champagne in quality but unfortunately we don't see them here in Singapore. As for Franciacorta, the Champagne equivalent of Italian sparkling wine, I have never come across any yet here in Singapore. The argument is that with the sort of money you pay for Franciacorta, you might as well buy a Champagne. Cremants, bubblies from outside Champagne, are delicious and so much more affordable than Champagne.
I suggest that if you are interested in tasting Cremants, try the ones from Burgundy, Bordeaux and Loire. They are widely available in Carrefour at Suntec city. And if you are adventurous, buy a bottle of Cremant de Die over there made from the Clairette grape. The Cremants from each region are made from different grapes so if you like something, say cheesy and leesy, go for Burgundy. Good acid and green apples, then go for Loire. Lemony and citrus belongs to Bordeaux. I can't remember if they sell Cremants rose from Bordeaux but that is absolutely delicious and reminds me of raspberry coulis.
Don't like the French? Have a go at Asti or fan-favourite, Moscato d'Asti. What's the difference? Both ASti and Moscato are made from the same grapes but Asti has a high alcohol and taste less sweet. Moreover, Asti has more bubbles than Moscato. Some say Moscato is a dessert semi-sparkling wine. Quite honestly, I could drink Moscato in the morning or anytime of the day, during any part of the meal. It's a convival drink, and most examples of it can be cosumed with levity.
The report also adds that Brazil is a country to watch out for and I must concur to that. I have managed to try a few from Vinexpo last year and I must say the quality is growing. Their style reminds me a lot of what Australia is doing from the level of ripeness obtained from their grapes (Hey, it's Brazil, it's hot). If you are interested, go to http://www.garnetnperidot.com. These guys are specialised in Brazilian wines here in Singapore and bring in Miolo bubblies. It's not a boutique winery but it gives you a taste of what Brazil is like. And if you are ordering some wines from them, you have to include their Quinta do Seival Castas Portuguesas. I know it's not a bubbly but I tasted that in London a month ago, and you can't hate a red wine like Touriga Nacional. If you like floral aromas, Nacional is your hero.
No comments:
Post a Comment