Bubbles for Breast Cancer

It's that time of the year when all things are pink, for breast cancer awareness. I've spent a lot of money on 'pink' items that I really didn't want or even know what to do with just to show support.

This year I've found ways to support the cause that also support two of my favorite habits: bubbles and coffee.

It's the second year for Mionetto's Pink Cork for the Cause. The prosecco makers have put 125 pink corks in both their brut and rose' sparklers. Find one and not only to you win a pink 5-speed hand mixer, but you are also entered into a contest for a $10,000 charity donation. Win this and Mionetto will make a $10,000 donation to the breast cancer charity of your choice, on your behalf.

The company donated $40,000 last year. Both of these proseccos are pleasing not only in flavor but also in price, $15 range. Even better, is the limited edition Speculoos Truffles created by Master Chocolatier Christophe Toury; they are fabulous with these wines. Dipped in pink and white chocolate, the confections are a decadent combination of cinnamon, nutmeg and brown sugar; a kind of gingerbread truffle.

A portion of the chocolate proceeds also goes to breast cancer charities.

The truffles are not only good with the bubbles but a hot cup of coffee too.

I just got this Lulu Travel Tumbler from Trudeau, a company that has donated more than a half million dollars to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. They have an entire product line of tumblers and travel mugs, designated to the cancer cause.

I like the design of this one; its curves and artwork. I especially like the flip top. So far I've not spilled any liquids and none have leaked out either. Victory! This one is $14.99.

It's always wise to do some research before blindly buying a product or donating money to any group claiming to support a charity. While most are reputable, there are always a couple of bad apples. These are two good ones.

Bubbles and the Bird

If it has bubbles, I want to drink it; prosecco, cava, Champagne and/or sparkling wine. And since bubbles are great with birds, consider serving them this Thanksgiving.

Just returning from a trip to France, I admit to being partial to Champagne, however, I DO enjoy a good prosecco....Italian sparkling wine made from a grape also known as glera.

Prosecco has become wildly popular not just in the US but around the world, because of its low cost and good quality. Just two of several reasons to consider this wine for this weeks Thanksgiving celebrations.

I took the difficult challenge of trying a couple of selections prior to the big day and want to pass on my observations for consideration.

I have to admit I was a little taken aback by the packaging of the of Riondo Prosecco Spago Nero, as the cork was one typically found in a still wine; no wire cage, no twisting until the pressure forced the cork out. I had to use a standard wine key to pop this cork.

A bit fruity, citrusy and slightly sweet, this wine would be a great aperitif or good with any spicy dish you may be serving.

For something with a bit more body and acidity, try the Astoria "Lounge" Prosecco. It has the most beautiful, fine bubbles, a bit of apple, pear and would go well with anything salty or creamy.

Even better, after dinner, make a palate cleansing Sgroppino with the prosecco; fill your flute with about 3 oz of prosecco,  1 oz of vodka and a third a cup of lemon sorbet for a light and refreshing finisher.

Find both wines for under $15. For that price buy a couple.

Holiday Sparklers

Love these great holiday cocktail ideas with using Mionetto Prosecco. Yes, this is the company that actually uses crown caps on one of it's bottles of bubbles. Enore Ceola, Managing Director for Mionetto USA explains the controversial move and gives some fun, festive ways to enhance your bubbly here:

https://soundcloud.com/gina-birch-live/enore-ceola

Spumante Surprise

At a wine tasting this week I saw the top of what appeared to be sparkling rose, and I couldn't wait to try it. That is until the wine rep pulled it out of the ice and I saw the word "Spumante". When I hear or see the word "Spumante", I automatically make a face inside of my head. My first thought is "this is going to be really sweet." I prefer my Prosecco or any bubbles for that matter, to be dry.

Looking at the other wines on the table, I knew there was quality at hand so I decided to let go of my pre-judgement and give it a go. I could always dump if it was a dud. I'm so glad I didn't have to. This Zardetto Spumante Rose from Veneto, Italy, was not only a beautiful raspberry color, but had a fresh raspberry flavor with a little spice. It's easy to drink and easy on the wallet; in the $15 range.