This is a Heat Wave?

A funny thing happens when it reaches 80 degrees in San Francisco – people run through the streets because they no longer have to wear jackets outside, and the fire alarm goes off in our building. Maybe it’s not really a fire alarm, but a warning system that it’s time to leave your apartment and enjoy the rare pleasure of a semi-hot day in the city. It does make us wonder, though; what would happen if there was actually a fire on a warm day? But these are questions best left to the experts.

There are a few ways to cool down on the sporadic warm days in this town. None of them involve air conditioning. In a town where 82 is like walking through the gates of hell, there’s really no need. Besides, that’s what windows are for. And if you ever open a window in San Francisco and there isn’t a breeze blowing, you can be pretty sure the world has ceased to turn. But besides open windows, relief can also come from taking a dip in the frigid Pacific Ocean and risk running into a great white shark, or doing what we do: drinking champagne.

One nice choice for a warm summer’s day is Freixenet Brut Cordon Rosado ($14). This sparkling wine is lovely just sitting in the glass, with a blushing pink color and the perfect amount of bubbles. The aroma is faintly sweet, as is the first taste. It starts dry, but has a wet finish, and is thankfully easy to drink when trying to cool down. The overall flavors were of tart apples and grapes, with no bitterness left in your mouth. We wouldn’t care if the heat wave lasted until November.

Score: She gives it a 3.5, he gives it a 3

Recommended: Yes, while not spectacular, this is a good wine for someone who has never had champagne and doesn’t like drinks that are too dry.