Best Buy! The bubble house for Ste. Michelle Wine Estates has picked up 14 Platinums in the 22 years of the judging, and this marks the fifth time for its bargain Brut. Paula Eakin took over the program in 2015, and the University of Idaho graduate produces this methode Champenoise uses the classic varieties Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. It’s incredibly bright with aromas and flavors of Bosc pear, Golden Delicious apple and lemon/lime to balance the residual sugar of 1.5%. The expressive mousse and precision made this an ideal accompaniment for just about any food and occasion. Thankfully, it’s priced for everyday enjoyment, and it’s the most widely available wine to earn a Platinum in 2021. Award: Cascadia International (gold)
Rating: Double Platinum, 98 points
Production: 917,000 cases
Alcohol: 11.5%
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