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Tasting Table CHICAGO

Enjoy this story from our archive, originally sent to TT members on .

Sparkle Motion

Tips from Chicago's Champagne guru, Jason Wagner

(Photo: Element Collective)

You’ll find a staggering list of grower Champagnes--along with bubbles from many other parts of the world--when RM opens adjacent to Nellcôte later this month.

Until you're able to drink them at RM, try these offbeat suggestions from wine director Jason Wagner. There’s a wine for every need, from sparkling cocktails to picnic-blanket sippers.

Punta Crena Pettirosso ($24 at Red & White): This biodynamic frizzante rosé hails from Liguria. With bright berry notes, solid acidity and a soft sparkle, “it’s great for hot, hot days,” says Wagner.

Barmes-Buecher Crémant d’Alsace 2009 ($23 at Binny’s): Another biodynamic pick, this 100 percent Chardonnay Crémant has the texture (and the production method) of Champagne at a third of the cost.

Tenuta Santomè Prosecco ($16 at Whole Foods): Wagner describes this go-to as “Prosecco that has character,” but it still plays nice with others when mixed into sparkling summer drinks.

Ameztoi Txakolina Rubentis Rosé 2011 ($19 at Perman Wine Selections): We’re longtime devotees of Txakolí, a gently effervescent Basque wine. In this rosé, made from both red and white grapes, citrus and apple notes are rounded out by soft red fruit. Added perk: “It’s lower in alcohol, so you can drink it all day,” Wagner says.

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