The NV Brut Metodo Classico is a beautifully balanced, crisp sparkling wine with excellent definition in its white peaches, apricots, smoke and flowers. Medium in body, Brut Metodo Classico offers excellent balance in a mid-weight style. This is one of the finest sparkling wines (from any country) for the money. This is Lot: L8086/24, disgorged 2008. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011. Ferrari is an excellent source for fine sparkling wines from northern Italy.Importer: Palm Bay International, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 362-9642

Ferrari’s NV Brut Metodo Classico is often one of best methode Champenoise wines in northern Italy, but this particular bottle comes across as heavy and plodding, with little of the sheer verve of the best versions. This is Lot L0022/22, disgorged 2010. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2013. Importer: Palm Bay International, Boca Raton, FL; tel. (561) 362-9642

The non-vintage Brut Ferrari, a three million bottle cuvee, features fresh and yeasty citrus fruit on the nose and an clean, energetic, and invigorating palate.

This Brut sparkling wine from northern Italy opens with enticing aromas of toasted bread, yellow rose and bright lemon zest. That vanilla cream versus citrus juxtaposition is what sets this fantastic bubbly apart. ——M.L.(12/31/2011)—— 90