Oregon Sparkling Wines to Send 2020 Off
by Alex Frane
“As hard as it is to believe, 2020 is nearly finished. A year defined by a deadly pandemic and political and social discord, it’s safe to assume that few will be looking back on the year with nostalgia. And while 2021 is not guaranteed to be easier, the arrival of vaccinations for COVID-19 gives a reason for some hope.
So as the year draws to an end, some celebrations are in order. And what better way to celebrate than with sparkling wine, specifically that from our own exemplary wine-growing state? To that end, we’ve talked to a number of Portland wine experts to get their favorite examples for sparkling local wines, from the big names to the small producers.
Amanda Cannon, co-owner and wine director of Normandie
‘Argyle is kind of the OG sparkling producer of the Willamette Valley, and their availability is pretty widespread so it’s a great go-to if you don’t have time to hunt some of these other wines down…
Ron Acierto, creator of Bar Muselet and Pinot Noir Wine Events
‘If you love Champagne and the classic methode champenoise style, you have some veteran and brand-new players to choose from. Argyle is the original house of Oregon bubbles and a never-to-be missed stop when touring wine country. If you want to splurge a little bit, look for some of their older vintage Argyle Blanc de Blancs (my personal favorites) or, when you’re visiting their tasting house, ask about the Argyle Extended Tirage Brut. At minimum, these bubbles are aged for 7 years.’”