Ben's Bubbly: J Vineyards & Winery, Cuvée 20

I know with living in Colorado I shouldn't say this, but I am glad that Tebow-mania will finally come to a rest (at least until July). The Broncos had a good run, but all this focus on Tebow as the Broncos' savior was really annoying. Even more annoying is the fact that my team (Green Bay Packers) lost as well and will not be repeating as Super Bowl champions. By the time the next season starts, Ben will probably have outgrown all of his Packers clothes. He had a pretty uneventful week, though the poor sleeping returned. We'll be moving into our new house soon, so he'll have his very own bedroom and we're looking forward to that!

He is starting to really recognize words and understand some of the things we say. He is fascinated by ceiling fans and every time we say the word "fan," he immediately looks up to find one. He thinks it is quite funny when we look up at the fan, too, and say, "Whoosh, whoosh" as we move our heads around in a circle. This usually elicits a hearty laugh. Ben also knows the word "foot." When we put his pants on him and leave just his toes hanging out the foot hole, if we ask him were his foot is, he reaches down and grabs his little feet. Even before he started moving around upright, I had come to the realization that this little person would be able to walk, but I still am having trouble comprehending that very soon, too, he will be able to communicate his very own thoughts and ideas with words.

 J Vineyards & Winery, Cuvée 20

The first glass of wine my wife had when she was pregnant was a bottle of J sparkling wine. We've had several since and are always pleased with the wine. This 25th anniversary label was no different, especially more so since the last two (a Champagne and a California sparkler) have been only so-so. The sexy labeling (few reviews discuss labeling, but that is often a major determinant of consumer choice so I think I will start mentioning the packaging), gives way to a pretty yellow bubbly wine. Apples and stone fruit dominate on the nose. Apricots, apples and a bit of toast tempt you as you swirl your glass. The first thing that comes to mind when I taste it is Fuji apple and pear marmalade on sourdough toast. The acid is well integrated and not overpowering as a few recent bubblies have been. Overall, this is a smooth and balanced wine that goes down quite easily. The Cuvée 20 might not wow you, but it will not disappoint. 12.5% abv Sample $24. Good/Very Good