Bodegas Carlos Serres, Rioja DOCa (La Rioja, Spain) Método Tradicional Brut 2020 ($25, Winesellers, Ltd)

Denominación de Origen Calificada (DOCa) Rioja began permitting sparkling wine production under DOCa Rioja appellation after a 2017 agreement by the Rioja Regulatory Board. This vintage Método Tradicional Brut drinks wonderfully, driven by crisp pear and green apple notes. It has a light toast accent that complements the sparkling nature of the wine. Bodegas Carlos Serres traditionally focuses on international varieties but chooses to blend them with traditional Rioja varieties to make this crisp bubbly. With a price under $30, it’s a steal.
91 Vince Simmon