Unfortunately, you have probably tasted some horrible wines made in the Charmat method—like that last wedding reception you attended where the bride and groom decided to spend as little as possible on the wines and the “Champagne” they used for their toast came with a warning—urging the buyer not to point the bottle at his face when opening it. Cheers! Here’s to the happy couple and surviving the brain imploding hangover! All levity aside, Prosecco is one of those great wine values — where high quality and a modest price meet. Mionetto makes a wide range of cuvées and we found this DOC Valdobbiadene from the “MO” line outstanding. The grapes are sourced exclusively from selected vineyards in the villages of Santo Stefano and San Pietro di Barbozza, bordering the celebrated Cartizze area.

This Prosecco is one the finest available in the US; it comes in a stylish bottle and is drinking beautifully right now. The staff tasted this Valdobbiadene in the early spring and we fell in love with it. Since then we’ve introduced it to hundreds of our customers. Made from 100% Prosecco, it has a pale straw color and tiny bubbles. Ample pear, yellow apple and a slight touch of ripe melon and apple blossom grace the nose. The fresh vibrant fruit on the palate is tempered by a creamy, nutty quality. The finish is crisp and bone dry. An ideal match with melon and prosciutto, shrimp or sea scallops sautéed in butter, swordfish carpaccio and yes, it is also ideal to serve at wedding receptions.

—Donald