Andre Strawberry

Andre Strawberry is a sparkling wine made in Massachusetts and bottled by Esplanda in a 750ml format. The name points to a strawberry-flavored style, which in this category usually means a fruit-forward, off-dry to sweet sparkler with a soft, light body rather than a bone-dry brut. Expect ripe strawberry on the nose and palate, possibly with a hint of cream or candied berry. Tannin and oak should be absent, and the acidity usually stays gentle and refreshing. Carbonation in this style tends to be lively but not aggressive, so the finish is clean and fruity rather than long and complex. The label does not list ABV or sweetness level, so check the bottle for those figures. Serve it well chilled, around 40 to 45°F, which keeps the sweetness in check and the bubbles crisp. Two hours in the refrigerator or about 30 minutes in an ice bath will get it there. There is no reason to decant a sparkling wine like this. Open it gently, holding the cork while you twist the bottle, to keep the mousse intact. A flute shows off the bubbles, though a standard white wine glass lets the strawberry aroma come through more clearly, and either works. At the table, fruit-led sparklers like this suit foods that balance sweetness: salty cheeses such as brie or fresh goat cheese, prosciutto and melon, lightly salted crackers, and desserts built on berries, shortcake, or vanilla cream. It also works with brunch dishes like pancakes, waffles, and fruit tarts. For cocktails, it can top up a spritz-style drink, or be poured over a few fresh strawberries or a splash of citrus. This is a drink-now bottle. Wines in this style are made for their fresh fruit character and do not improve with cellaring, so keep it cool and upright and open it within a year or so of purchase. Once opened, a sparkling wine stopper will keep the bubbles reasonable for a day, and it tastes best on the day it is opened.