1987 Vintage Brut Varietal/Style: Brut Origin: Russian River Valley Vintage: 1987 Winemaker: Oded Shakked Rating: 15/20 Retail Price: $50

Tasting Notes: Bottled in 1988, this wine celebrates J's first vintage in 1987. The lengthy aging process worked to develop the wine's toasted almond and yeast tones. Although there is little fruit freshness left in the wine's character, there remains a lively citrus quality and a lingering, nutty finish. We find this limited-production bottling to be one of the highest quality sparkling wines released in America this year. (Date tasted: 03/03/00)

Profile: J Vineyards & Winery (formerly J Wine Company) has found a proper home with its new Russian River Valley winemaking facility and tasting room. The coastal climate of the winery's 250 acres lends itself perfectly to growing the grapes used in sparkling wine, the style on which J built its reputation. Founded in 1986, the winery is named for owner Judy Jordan (see interview with Jordan here). Today the winery also offers still wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. The company's dedication to the pairings of wines with food is evident in the unique tasting room setup, where its samplings are served with hors d'oeuvres selected to enhance the wine choices.

Address
11447 Old Redwood Highway
City: Healdsburg, CA USA
Phone: (707) 431-5400
Web site: www.jwine.com
E-mail: winefolk@jwine.com

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