Try a Sparkling Wine From Spokane’s Mountain Dome

Any time is a good time to enjoy champagne and sparkling wines, but as we approach New Year’s Eve even more people seem to pop the cork on a bottle or two as a matter of tradition. If that’s the case for you, let me suggest a couple of selections from a Pacific Northwest winery that should help enhance any festive occasion.

Mountain Dome Winery, located near Spokane, has been producing some very nice sparkling wines since 1984. I met with owner/winemaker Michael Manz at his production facility last September. It’s about 30 minutes north of Spokane in a fairly isolated location, but well worth the drive.

Along with his son, Erik, Manz has taken the art of sparkling winemaking and, with years of experience, crafted it to near perfection. The end result: remarkable sparkling wines at reasonable prices that are comparable to champagnes costing several dollars more.

My current recommendations include the Non-Vintage Brut (about $15). It has plenty of apple flavors and a nice, crisp finish. This is a great “everyday” sparkler that is well distributed and easy to spot…just look for the gnomes on the label.

Also notable is the Non-Vintage Cuvee Forte (about $27) which displays generous green apple flavors followed by toasted caramel and a yeasty, creamy finish. Exquisite and delicious.

More information: www.mountiandome.com or phone (509) 928-BRUT.