2001 Classic Vintage Brut Varietal/Style: Sparkling Wine Origin: Sonoma County, CA Vintage: 2001 Winemaker: David Munksgard Rating: 13.5/20 Retail Price: $30

Tasting Notes: A traditional blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, this choice is a quintessential sparkler. Delicate but with intense flavor and character, this Brut is wonderfully versatile. Pairs well with salty treats, sushi and tempura, and is delectable with fresh fruits and berries. (Date tasted 08/06)

Tasting Notes: This very limited release (only 125 cases) from an American sparkling wine Titan is an easy-drinking addition to the bubbly roster. Fruity on the nose and long on finish, Vrais Amis offers lively green apple flavors and aromas. An all-Chardonnay dosage sets this sparkler apart from the winery's fine Classic Vintage Brut, making for a wine as crisp and complex as an autumn day. (Date tasted 08/26/00)

Profile: Located in the Green Valley, the coolest and foggiest part of the Russian River Valley, Iron Horse has been a leader in American sparkling wines for more than a quarter-century. The original 110 acres were planted in 1970, six years before Audrey and Barry Sterling bought the Sonoma County property. Today, their daughter Joy Anne Sterling is the CEO of the family-owned winery which has expanded to 160 acres of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Besides the estate grown and bottled wines, which includes those two varietals and seven sparklers, winemaker David Munksgard also oversees the production of other stills, including Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc and Viognier.

Address:
9786 Ross Station Rd.
City: Sebastopol, CA
Phone: 707-887-1507
Web site: www.ironhorsevineyards.com
E-mail: info@ironhorsevineyards.com

(Updated 03/25/08 ES)