region: Burgenland, AustriaGrape(s): Pinot NoirFarming: certified organic Although Austria has emerged on the international wine scene on the strength of their white wines, here in the region of Burgenland on the eastern edge of Austria, red wines rule the day. Although he makes some deep and dark reds, Leo Hillinger uses his young vine Pinot Noir for the foundation of this fun and fresh sparkling rosé. An homage to the Prosecco bubbles of Italy by name and by style, Leo adds the bubbles to the still wine by way of the same Charmat Method used in the Veneto. Filled with fruit flavors of ripe strawberries and tart raspberries, it finishes with a fresh effervescence that lifts the finish and balances out the soft fruit flavors. Pairings: Red wine roasted cherry tomato & goat cheese crostini
