With friends at a wine bar (an excellent selection at La Muse Vin, 101 rue Charonne, 75011; +33.1.40.09.93.05), we were in the mood for something sparkling. The barman steered us away from Champagne and recommended a more modest Mauzac Nature from Robert and Bernard Plageoles. Not only was the price for this Gaillac gem a lot lower, so was the alcohol content at only 10.5%. Flavors on the palate were like baked apples and it was very dry. With a faint fizz, it reminded me of sparkling cider, but I cannot say I have ever had anything quite like it.