A rich, smoky undertow of toasted nut mixes with notes of apple, pear, preserved lemon, dried apricot and marzipan in this tightly knit, finely textured sparkler. Creamy, with lovely balance overall. Drink now through 2021. 3,500 cases made. –AN

A landmark wine for those who love Italian sparklers, this shows loads of ripe apricot, melon and honey notes, with toasted nut and baked bread hints in the background. There are also touches of caramel and butterscotch that help move the wine’s thick and opulent texture across the palate. It ends with refreshing acidity and tonic perlage. — (12/1/2012) —92

Hints of whole-grain toast and soft raisin mix in this creamy sparkler with flavors of yellow pear, mace and toasted hazelnut. Fresh and mouthwatering, with a lightly smoky, subtle finish. Chardonnay. Drink now through 2014. 2,400 cases made. -AN

The 2000 Brut Giulio Ferrari Riserva del Fondatore is an opulent wine bursting with ripe tropical fruit, licorice, smoke, minerals and spices. The exuberant, layered 2000 Riserva del Fondatore offers great clarity and detail, with a generous finish that rounds out the close. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2020. Ferrari is an excellent source for fine sparkling wines from northern Italy. Importer: Palm Bay International, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 362-9642