My Handsome Brut

Well, another week is wrapping up. Shane had the kids this past weekend, a rainy and cold time was had by all. I was away with my mom on a motorcycle trip. The rain prevented a few of our activities, but we still have a good time. And, as an added "bonus", I did gain a bit of confidence with respect to riding in the rain. 

This Champagne Thursday was a bit special, we've been busy getting ready for a friend's wedding this coming weekend (getting me a dress - ugh, and gift shopping - because yes, we left it 'til the last minute) and so we haven't really had a relaxing evening. When we got home from our running around, there was a package waiting for us at the post office. So we packed the dog into the car, rolled down the windows and set off to pick up our prize. Turns out, our photographer, Jessica, had express posted our wedding album to us so that it would arrive for Champagne Thursday. So thoughtful and lovely. 

September 17, 2015

This week's bubbly was chosen purely because of the label. We are happy to admit that we do that quite often. This one, oh man, it has the perfect label. The perfect name. The perfect confidence in the description. This week we had Handsome Brut, from Angel's Gate Winery. And man, was he good. 

When my handsome brut popped the cork on this Handsome Brut, he immediately smelled raspberry donuts - tart raspberries and a sweet bready smell. I smelled granny smith apples in the glass, nice and tart. 

Upon drinking, Shane got tart raspberries while I maintained my crisp apples. It made the backs of my cheeks pucker a bit before giving way to a sweeter finish. There are lots of bubbles, medium size, and since it feels a bit sweeter, the bubbles give it a creamy mouth feel. It is a touch light on the acid for us, we like our bubblies to bite back a little bit more than this guy does. It would be great on a cool night, because it's smooth and consistent. 

Verdict: Yes, we'd absolutely get this again, but not on a summery day as it's not as crisp and refreshing as some other choices. It is a little outside of our normal price range though. 

• Brand: Angel's Gate
• Type of Grape: Chardonnay, 100% Ontario grown
• Sweetness: 11g/L
• Price: $24.95
• Tasting Notes: Smooth and sweet, hints of tart raspberries, apples and bread, full bodied, creamy mouth-feel. Would be great with a warm seafood soup.