Sparkling personality

The best way to beat the heat on a hot night? With a chilled glass of snappy, refreshing sparkling wine. Here are a few of our summertime favorites.

Mirabelle Brut nv (North Coast), $16. Light and fresh with just a hint of creaminess. Bottom line: Delicious bubbly at a steal of a price. Who needs Chardonnay?

Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut nv (Sonoma), $18. A real thirst-quencher. Crisp and appley with a delicious light creaminess. Bottom line: There’s no better way to cool off in summer.

Domaine Chandon Brut Classic nv (California), $17. Light, fresh, and easy to drink. Bottom line: An ever-so-slightly softer style for those summer backyard parties.

Mumm Cuvée Napa Valley Brut Prestige nv (Napa Valley), $18. Light caramel and fresh apple flavors with a good streak of crispness. Bottom line: Had a hard day? This will fix things.

Iron Horse Wedding Cuvée 1998 (Green Valley, Sonoma County), $28. Exotic, yeasty, and creamy. Bottom line: You don’t need to be getting married to sip this.

Sunset’s Wine Club