Cheap Sparklies?

[Lil Ryan]

I'm throwing a dinner/dance party for about 100 people, and I don't want to go broke buying wine. However, the hall I'm renting won't allow any red wines or punches [img]http://www.wines.com/ubb2/frown.gif[/img].

I'm thinking about getting some reasonable Chilean Chardonnay to go with the main course (Chicken), and maybe something lighter like Pinot Gris to go with the appetizers (Salmon and others). Since we're celebrating my parent's silver anniversary, I thought it may be appropriate to bring some sparking wines (I can't afford Champange). However, with a price target of less than $10 per bottle, my friends recommended against getting cheap sparkling wines -- they say it causes headaches.

Any thoughts or recommendations on my (unfortunately white) wine selection?

Thanks!

[Innkeeper]

You can hardly go wrong with one the Spanish Cavas. These are made in the Champagne method, and most are quite good. Would recommend going with an extra dry version, as their bruts tend to make one pucker. You can usually find good buys on these at Sams or similar venues.

For those of you wondering about the red wine and punch restrictions; it's all about the carpets.

[This message has been edited by Innkeeper (edited 09-18-2001).]

[Lil Ryan]

What are the prices on Spanish Cavas?

[Innkeeper]

You said you wanted $10 or less.

[Lil Ryan]

Thanks for the tip!

Also, I understand this board's disdain for over-oaked Californian Chardonnays. Any thoughts about Chilean Chards?

Ryan

[Innkeeper]

Samo, samo. Not all boad members are anti-oak. I am except for lightly oaked ones for quaffing. To find those without or low in oak, avoid those that blatantly announce on the label that the wine is "toasty oaky" has "vanilla scents and overtones" and other such missives. To be sure look for the word "Macon" on French labels, "Unwooded" on Australian labels, and "Fermented and aged in stainless steel" on American labels. You can also ask at the winery.

[Bucko]

Won't allow red wines??? What's up with that?

[Innkeeper]

Mr Moderator, please read my first post.

[Thomas]

Must be cheap carpets. I agree with IK on the Chardonnay route; I prefer the Macon--Saint Veran.