“This sparkling wine goes so well with food!” our hostess exclaims, lifting a fluted glass on a chill winter evening. “I always thought sparklers were for aperitifs or dessert!”
As we celebrate 2009, let us also celebrate the end of all “rules” about sparkling wines and champagne. As you explore the world of sparklers, you will find that even though they glitter with celebratory bubbles we adore for special occasions, they are a wine like any other. Just as some wines are “food wines” and some are better as an aperitif to stimulate the appetite, so are sparklers.
Recently I came across an incredible food wine with a very sci-fi sounding name. It is Mumm’s DVX, vintage 2000, which has such an aromatic, toasty, yummy vanilla nose and full, powerful palate it can pair with a wide variety of foods.
First, more about the wine. You have probably heard the Mumm name before, and that’s important. When you bring a hostess gift, it really is all about bringing a universal high-end brand name that carries recognition and cachet. Though most hosts and hostesses know they have the option of reserving your gift for another occasion and not serving it in your presence, you always want to stretch yourself to bring a signature brand. After all, your gift represents how you value your host as well as yourself.
Mumm’s DVX is clearly not their entry level brand. The curious three letters of this premium offering represent Guy Devaux, who was born in northeastern France, a region famous for its production of Champagne wines. After his wine education he began his career at the Institut Oenologique de Champagne in Epernay. In 1960 he moved to Northern California and ultimately helped create a signature style of sparkling wines that can rival that of France’s Champagne region.
Article comments
1 - Joanne Huspek
This is one of my favorite sparkling wines, although their Santana is very good as well.
2 - marisa d'vari
Thanks, Joanne, it really impressed me!