California picks that are sure to please

CALIFORNIA sparkling wines are almost all good bets for Thanksgiving, but these are a few favorites. They’re all widely available at fine wine retailers.

2002 Domaine Carneros Brut. Attractive aroma, a little yeasty, a little earthy, with fine bubbles and an earthy finish. About $24.

Domaine Chandon Rose N.V. New this year, with exuberant flavor and strawberry soda undertones. A crowd-pleaser for sure. About $16.

Domaine Chandon Brut N.V. Fruity but still crisp and very bubbly. About $15.

Chandon Etoile Rose N.V. A lively, pale salmon-colored sparkler with bright acidity. Finishes nicely. About $30.

Iron Horse Wedding Cuvee N.V. Bracing and lively and decidedly butterscotchy. About $28.

Mumm Cuvee Napa N.V. Another good value that is full, rounded, almost toasty. About $15.

Piper Sonoma Brut N.V. A great value that is very crisp, invigorating, almost acerbic. About $12.

Roederer Estate Brut N.V. Pleasant and well-balanced, with pretty pear aromas and a touch of earthiness. About $17.

Roederer Estate Brut Rose N.V., Anderson Valley. The barest hint of peach color, with frothy bubbles, nice acid and a touch of yeastiness. Festive, at a good price. About $22.

1999 Schramsberg J. Schram. This high-end, vintage brut blanc de blancs is new this year. Lovely yeasty nose, earthy layers of flavor and a pretty finish. About $76.

-- Regina Schrambling

and Leslie Brenner