I needed a few bottles of sparkling wine to be ready for any celebration that might be called for (LOOK! IT’S A DAY!), so I did some research. I wanted something really good, but I didn’t want to spend too much. I checked what Robert Parker, Jr.’s Wine Advocate had to say, and found this somewhat old review of Bohigas Brut Reserva Cava offered by Robert Parker hisself: “Made from a classic blend (for this area) of Xarel-lo, Macabeo and Parellada planted in limestone and clay soils, the wine spends 24 months on its lees before disgorgement. It is an excellent value for consumers looking for alternatives to French Champagne. Lemon/lime, crushed rock and white currant notes are present in this crisp, elegant, refreshing, zesty, dry sparkler. Hints of wheat thins and brioche add complexity.” He rated it 90, which is excellent. A few other reviewers had some very nice things to say about Bohigas’ more recent offerings, and I’d have to opine that this is a rock-solid, steady winner. So I bought a few bottles to taste and discovered, as usual, that Parker’s taste buds were absolutely correct. This is a marvelous alternative to Champagne, especially when you consider the price. I got mine for $11.96/bottle from Wine Library. This is one wine you want to get by the half-case at least, unless you have a lot of celebrating to do!
