($22):  Piper Sonoma, a subsidiary of Piper Heidsieck, the French Champagne company, has been producing sparkling wines in California since 1980.  Their wines have taken a quantum leap in quality recently.  Take this Blanc de Blancs for example.  Made primarily from Chardonnay (75%), with Pinot Blanc rounding out the blend, it is focused, with touches of green apple-like flavors. It has a laser-like pleasantly piercing quality that refreshes the palate.  Sure, you can enjoy it as an aperitif, but it also works beautifully on the dining table along with grilled fish.
92 Michael Apstein Dec 24, 2019