Champalou NV Vouvray Brut, Loire Valley

This wonderful sparkler is a reminder that not all bubblies need be Champagne.  The impeccable Chenin Blancs produced by Champalou are in full display here.  Explosive fruit gives the impression of sweetness at first taste, but quickly turns dry throughout the journey from middle to finish.  Indeed, at only 3 grams of sugar per liter, this is a dry bubbly, with a fine breed and full of distinctive flavor.