Paringa Sparkling Shiraz 2004

Price: $10.99 @ Wine Gallery
Recommended by: Wine merchant at Blanchard's (JP)
Comments: So it's just like you'd hope it would be. A rich, flavorful, Australian Shiraz, but with bubbles. Lots of little, happy bubbles. And these bubbles accentuate the fruity Shiraz flavor (raspberry and blueberry), which is anything but subtle to begin with. It rocks. And what could make it better? It's a wicked pairing with dark chocolate. This may not be an everyday wine, but when we're in the mood for this distinctive wine, it is fantastic.
Rating: 7.25/10

Segura Viudas Brut Reserva

Price: $6.99 @ Blanchard's Jamaica Plain
Recommended by: wine seller at Blanchard's
Comments: We don't know Jack about champagnes, but we do know that Jack Bauer probably doesn't drink it. Nevertheless, we've been trying champagnes (sparkling wines, whatever) that are mostly Pinot grapes (Chardonnay, blah), but this Spanish one came highly recommended by the wine seller. It is a blend of different grapes, none of them Chardonnay or Pinot, and it is surprisingly tasty. It's a bit citrusy (lemon/lime/orange), and we would definitely get this again. Plus, the price can't be beat. (Rob wants to try it with sushi -- big surprise there!)
Rating: 6.5/10