The founding fathers drank Madeira after signing the Declaration of Independence, but in these parts, these days, thermometers are weeping. Not only does sparkling wine hiss and fizz like a handheld firework, it excites like one, with less alcohol than a fortified, Fourth of July Madeira.Ameztoi Rubentis Txakolina Rosé, Spain 2013What is pink and fizzy and fun to say fast after three glasses? Rosé Txakolina (choc-o-leana)! Now you know Basque. This snazzy, slightly carbonated wine reminds me of an adult soft drink from the Pop Shoppe. Call it cherry lime rickey with a kick and keep it coming. $20 at J Emerson Fine Wines & CheeseChampagne Ayala Brut Majeur Ay, France NVAy, a Champagne region with Grand Cru vineyards producing bold Pinot Noir, makes the kind of bubbles that abducts couples rather than elopes with them. Wine Lovers’ owner Chris Anderson describes Ayala as “rich and biscuity. … At this price point, nothing compares.” $40 at Wine LoversMarsuret Prosecco Treviso Extra Dry, Italy NVThink on this: Bubbly labeled “extra dry” is sweeter than “brut” bottlings. Popping with fresh fruit — peach and honeyed apricot — preserved in bubbles the size of toad’s eyes, this sparkler becomes a puckered-up Prince Charming at picnics. $14 at Postbellum’s retail shopEudald Massana Noya Cava Brut Nature, Spain NVCava has been touted as poor man’s Champagne for so long I’m over that description. Yes, it undergoes a second bottle fermentation, just like Champagne, and yes, it’s yeasty like Champagne. But the wine comes from robust Spanish grapes. Cava (meaning “cave” in Catalonian), breaks bad on fried chicken and potato chips. This one is all estate fruit from an organic vineyard. $13 at Barrel Thief Wine Shop & CaféBlack Chook Sparling Shiraz, Australia NVI know people that only drink red wine, no matter what. Beneath a heavy glass bottle befitting a trophy Cab awaits a sparkling red, all fired up with black-pepper jam, ready to combat lamb burgers and blue cheese. Face it: It’s too hot for Cabernet at that grill. $17 at Corks & Kegs
