Classic Sparkler
Pale to medium straw yellow with lots of fine bubbles!
Aromas of apple & pear with white flowers & some of breadiness.
Flavors of tart citrus. Very dry on palate with pronounced minerality and vibrant acidity with a slightly bready finish, when labeled "Brut".
A blend (cuvée) usually based on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir with possible use of Gamay, Pinot Blanc, Sacy, Pinot Gris, Aligoté or Melon de Bourgogne.
The breadiness & overall quality can vary widely based upon the length of secondary fermentation in the bottle. Higher quality wines labeled; "Eminent" are aged for a minimum of 24 months & wines labeled "Grand Eminent" are aged a minimum 36 months & only use Pinot Noir & Chardonnay.
Wines can range from the fresh & crisp to rounder & fuller based on coming from the Northern to Southern parts of Burgundy.
High quality French sparklers not from Champagne but crafted the same way are often labeled Crémant ("creamy") & are somewhat less expensive. Sweetness levels are labeled the same as Champagne.
Serve it cold. Pair it just as you would a Vibrant Eve style Champagne.
Comes from...
Burgundy region of France
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