Wine of the Week: Lakewood Vineyards 2023 Bubbly Candeo

March 17, 2025: The latest vintage of this Cork Report favorite delivers a lot of warm weather-ready deliciousness for $14

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I have to admit that I’m a bit biased about this wine. I don’t care that it’s not a classic, traditional, or whatever sparkling wine.

It’s fairly straightforward. It’s 100% cayuga. It’s force-carbonated.

I also love it. It just makes me happy. That’s enough. Add that it’s $14 — meaning I can open a bottle in any situation — and I love it even more.

I don’t often go for descriptors like this, but Lakewood Vineyards 2023 Bubbly Candeo ($14*) smells like sunshine. Punchy aromas of lemon and grapefruit are layered with summer flowers, a little green apples, and a little tropical fruit.

Just off-dry (1.3% RS), the lighter-bodied palate offers a bit more tropical fruit, but with the same concentrated core of mixed citrus and flowers. The light sweetness is beautifully balanced with brisk acidity and frothy carbonation.

Chill it well and have it while you’re cooking. Or with cheese board. Or with a warm spring day. Or all three and beyond.

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Lakewood Vineyards 2023 Bubbly Candeo
Region: Finger Lakes AVA (New York)
Grapes: 100% cayuga
ABV: 10.6%
RS: 1.3%
TA: 8.5
pH: 3.16
Production: 3,100 cases
Rating: 90 pts
Price: $14* (Available Here)

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*Sample Provided by Winery