Wine Country Soda

In the mood for some bubbly but without the buzz of Champagne or cola? A Berkeley-based company has introduced a new soda that could be just the thing. Made from Northern California and Central Coast wine grapes, Vignette sodas have the floral notes of the grapes, but none of the tannins or woody notes -- and none of the alcohol. No preservatives, coloring or added sugars either.

The Pinot Noir soda tastes of cherries and violets; Chardonnay soda has hints of pear and green apple. Refreshing and not too sweet, they’re showing up on restaurant beverage lists, but you can also pick them up at specialty food stores and delis.

Vignette Wine Country Soda. $2.35 to $3 for 12 ounces at Bay Cities Italian Deli and Bakery in Santa Monica, Naples Gourmet Grocer in Long Beach, Robin’s Nest in Venice, Tender Greens in Culver City. For a complete list of sources, go to www.winecountrysoda.com.

-- Amy Scattergood