Schramsberg
1998 J. Schram Rosé
At
just about the same time we published our unique “Guide
to the Best Wineries of North America” in 1998, the winemaking
team at Schramsberg—headed by Jack and Jamie Davies—set
out to develop a flagship Rosé,
produced in a very artisanal fashion. This is a Méthode
Champenoise American sparkling wine made to rival the best from
Champagne,
with a perfect assemblage from selected grapes of prized vineyards:
50 percent Napa, 21 percent Mendocino, 18 percent Monterey and
11 percent Sonoma/Marin coast.
Today,
second-generation vintner Hugh Davies is proud to bring to market
a limited-production release—only 800 cases will be produced—that
is sure to be a conversation popper. “This is a polished
marriage of Chardonnay
(76 percent) and Pinot
Noir (24 percent),” says Davies. “We have weaved
together small lots of wines fermented in stainless steel tanks
with lots fermented in French oak barrels.”
As
we sampled this $120 cuvée, our taste buds could not disconnect
from Champagne
benchmarks and it was rather tricky to be a fair judge—especially
considering all our reviewed wines are rated on the same scale.
One thing to keep in mind is that this bottle was aged for seven
years following secondary fermentation, although we think it could
age for a longer time and still present an intense and distinguishingly
refreshing character. The fine bubbles reveal an array of flavors
in this dark pink sparkler. There is spice and there is fruit,
with a dominance of berry and citrus flavors on the palate. “This
Rosé is aged and complete, with elegance and distinction,”
claims winemaker Craig Roemer. You may certainly enjoy it by itself,
but this robust beverage can take you through a meal as well.
Suggested Price: $120
For
more information, visit www.schramsberg.com
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