Thanksgiving Day Suggestion #8: For Those Who Really Want to Drink Beer

Originally posted November 19, 2010.

A NOTE FROM THE FUTURE: I still adore this wine. And happily, the price is still quite similar to what it used to be!

Donati Camillo Malvasia Dolce Frissante 2007 (Emilia Romagna, Italy): This is not the first time I’ve written about this wine. It’s irresistible and addictive. It’s also hard to sell without a lot of arm twisting. But at this point, I’ve forced enough bottles on unsuspecting friends, customers, and (my) mother(s) that I’m comfortable twisting those arms. Because everyone who has tried it likes it. Not just likes it, but loves it. Even becomes ridiculously addicted to it. So this crazy cross between a beer and cream soda has gained a permanent place on the shelf. As long as it’s in stock at the distributor, it’s in stock at Frankly Wines.

There is a dry version which I enjoyed recently. But with every sip I kept wanting that little bit of sweetness, of extra creaminess and overall deliciousness that this one – the Dolce – offers up. So this is the one. Just use the excuse that at least one of your guests would rather be drinking beer and serve this as your “sort of beer-like substitute.” And then just try not to like it.

Price: $20.99

A bottle of Donati sparkling wine next to two stemless glasses filled with it. The picture is sort of blurry thanks to the old iphone I was using and the sepia filters that were the rage of the day.