Tag Archives: French sparkling wine

May Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine Clubdevaux-rose-cuvee-bottleDevaux
Cuvée Rosé
Champagne, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The addition of a small quantity of Pinot Noir vinified in red and rosé before secondary fermentation gives softness and roundness to this champagne. It is golden rose in color with aromas of ripe raspberries and white fruits. On the palate, it’s a rich and elegant fruit-driven rosé. There are notes of fresh red fruits with a touch of licorice rounding out the finish.

Varietal: 80% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay
Origin: Pinot Noir from the Côte des Bar and Chardonnay from Montgueux and Vitry
Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Residual Sugar: 8 g/L
Vinification: Alcoholic Fermentation in stainless-steel vats followed by malolactic fermentation
Bottling and Secondary Fermentation: 6 to 8 weeks
Maturation in Cellar: 3 years minimum
Riddling and Disgorging: 4 to 5 weeks
Extra Aging in Cellar After Dosage: 3 months minimum
Dosage: Brut
Critical Acclaim:

  • 93 Points – World Wine Championship
  • 93 Points – Beverage Testing Institute
  • 92 Points – Wine Enthusiast
  • 90 Points – James Suckling

PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:
Serving Temperature: 46-50ºF
Sensations: Singing, soft flowers, light fruits
Circumstances: Light meals, late evening, afternoon
Cuisine: Cured meats and fish, crab cakes and duck

ABOUT DEVAUX:
Champagne Devaux was founded in 1846 and is deeply rooted in the Côte des Bar region of southern Champagne. Uniquely, its early legacy was shaped by a remarkable line of women who led the house through its formative years, expanding its reputation across borders and establishing a foundation of excellence. In 1987, the last heir, Jean-Pol Auguste Devaux, entrusted the brand to the Union Auboise cooperative—now Groupe Vinicole Champagne Devaux—ensuring its continued growth. Today, Devaux is known for its high-quality, Pinot Noir–driven Champagnes, crafted with a focus on sustainable viticulture and extended aging. Learn more about the winery here.

Information & Photos © Bodega Tandem – All Rights Reserved.

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April Bubbly Club: Iowa

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JC-Reserva-de-la-Familia-bottleJuvé & Camps
Reserva De La Familia
Gran Reserva Brut Nature
Cava
Penedès, Spain

Bubbly Wine ClubBUBBLY WINE STYLE

Brilliant yellow with golden highlights. Fruity on the nose, with fresh apple aromas, hints of white flowers, and Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary. Subtle notes of lightly toasted bread and nuts add depth. The brut nature style—without added sugar—highlights its fresh yet profound character, complemented by finely integrated bubbles.

Varietal: 50% Xarel·lo, 35% Macabeu, 15% Perallada
Appellation: Penedès, Spain
Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Vinification: Traditional Method
Minimum Aging: 36 months
Dosage: Brut Nature – No Dosage
Vineyards: Espiells, La Cuscona, Mediona
Soil: Loam-limestone, Clay-limestone
Viticulture: Organic Certification

Origin:
Crafted from the trilogy of white grape varieties native to Penedès. Xarel·lo and Macabeo are sourced from estates in Espielles and La Cuscona, with loamy limestone soils at altitudes of 200-250m. The Parellada is grown in Mediona, at 500-750m elevation with clay-limestone soils.

Viticulture:
The organically managed vineyards are surrounded by forests and hedgerows, fostering biodiversity and natural balance. Regenerative viticulture ensures optimal conditions with minimal environmental impact.

Winemaking:
The grapes are gently crushed to extract free-run juice. The must undergoes static settling at low temperatures. The first fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks before secondary fermentation in the bottle. Aged for 36 months without the addition of expedition liqueur.

Vintage:
The 2021 vintage marks the onset of a drought cycle, yet water reserves helped vines produce wines with exceptional fruitiness, aging potential, and complexity.

About Juvé & Camps:
A family-owned winery in Penedès, Spain, producing premium Cava since 1921. Their flagship Gran Reserva Cavas, such as Reserva de la Familia, exemplify quality through organic farming and traditional methods. Learn more about Juvé & Camps

cremant-de-loire-blanc-brut-bottleLanglois-Château
Crémant de Loire Blanc Brut
France

Bubbly Wine ClubBUBBLY WINE STYLE

“The Langlois Crémant de Loire Blanc Brut is still our winery’s emblematic cuvée with freshness, balance, and elegance.”

Pale yellow in color, the nose is complex with white flowers, linden and hawthorn. The mouth is fresh, delicate and refined.

Varietal: Chenin Blanc (at least 50%), Chardonnay & Cabernet Franc
Terroirs: The grapes come from mainly Saumur terroirs but also from Anjou and Touraine: sand-limestone, clay-limestone & shale
Aging Potential: 3 to 5 years
Ideal Serving Temperature: 46.4ºF – 50ºF
Food Pairing: Its freshness, fine bubbles and elegance make Langlois Crémant de Loire Blanc Brut a reception wine par excellence, aperitif, and cocktail dinner. It will also accompany apple and pear pies, or even a pear-chocolate crumble.

Harvest:
Harvested entirely by hand in pierced crates. Pneumatic pressing a few hours after harvesting. Juice selection during pressing separating Cuvées from Tailles.

Vinification:
Vinification by grape variety and terroir in thermo-regulated stainless steel vats. Tasting of clear parcel wines to determine the blend. Maturing using the Méthode Traiditionnelle (secondary fermentation in the bottle). Aging on lees for at least 24 months.

About Langlois-Château: Founded in 1885, acquired by the Bollinger family in 1973, the winery now manages 95 hectares across Saumur, Saumur-Champigny, and Sancerre. Committed to sustainable viticulture, with 30 hectares in organic conversion. Learn more about Langlois-Chateau

Information & Photos © Juvé & Camps & Langlois-Chateau – All Rights Reserved

December Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubPierre-Sparr-Brut-Rose-bottle-bowMaison Pierre Sparr Successeurs
Crémant d’Alsace Brut Rosé
Pinot Noir
Alsace, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Salmon pink color; fresh aromas of soft red berries, predominantly strawberry and raspberry. On the palate, round and fruity with hints of peach; the flavors are intense, with lively acidity framed by a well-made structure and delicate bubbles. The finish is smooth, clean and dry.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Total Acidity: 7.5 g/L
Residual Sugar: 13 g/L
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Appellation: Crémant d’Alsace AOC, Alsace, France
Aging: 18 months in stainless steel
Soil: Granite, limestone, gneiss, chalky-clay
Vineyard Age: 23 years old
Vine Yields: 80 hl/ha (5.9 tons per acre)
Eco-Practices: Sustainable
Certification: Vegan
Critical Acclaim: 93 pts Wine Enthusiast 2022; 91 pts Tasting Panel 2021; 90 pts Wine Enthusiast 2020

Wine:
Crémant d’Alsace Brut Rosé is a sparkling rosé from 100% Pinot Noir. The brut-style wine’s red berry aromas of strawberry and raspberry lead into mouth-filling, juicy flavors and lively acidity.

Vineyards:
Pierre Sparr’s sparkling wines use grapes that are farmed sustainably, dry-farmed (no irrigation), and hand-harvested. Located in the Vosges hillsides and Rhine valley, elevation 200 to 400 meters (656 to 1,312 feet), primary eastern and southern exposures.

Harvest Notes:
Dates for the beginning of harvest for each Alsace AOC are set by decree, generally 100 days after the median date of flowering, at the time when the grapes display the best sugar-to-acid ratio. Intended vineyards for sparkling wine must be declared in advance of harvest and must be picked by hand. Grapes destined for Crémant are generally picked a few days before those for still wines in Alsace.

Winemaking:
Whole-cluster pressing; first fermentation occurs in temperature controlled, stainless-steel vats, transforming the must into still wine. Six months later, wines from hillsides and valley floor are blended to achieve the distinctive flavor profile of the rosé. Blended wine is then bottled with a specific yeast added to relaunch the second fermentation in bottle. The wine rests on lees a minimum of 18 months prior to disgorgement. Finally, the dosage is added to provide the particular brut style of this sparkling wine.

About the Winery:
The origin of winemaking in the Sparr family dates back to 1680. Generations later, Charles Sparr developed the business that his son, Pierre, later took the succession at the age of 20. Pierre had a distinct sense for business, making him a pioneer of “estate bottled” wines in Alsace. Pierre also had the courage and obstinacy to rebuild their entire estate after Sigolsheim and its vineyards were completely destroyed during WWII. In doing so, Pierre rebuilt one of Alsace’s most beautiful and prestigious Domaines. Today, with the help of the 9th generation, Pierre Sparr remains focused on producing quality wines, a pure expression of Alsace, that are aromatic, fruity, elegant, clean and vibrant. Pierre Sparr wines are food-friendly and accessible for everyday consumption. Learn more here.
 
Photo and Information © Pierre Sparr – All Rights Reserved

J-Vineyards-California-Cuvee-bottle-bowJ Vineyards & Winery
California Cuvée
California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This vibrant and approachable California Cuvée bursts with aromas of tart pineapple and orange blossom on its expressive nose. The palate is bright and rich, featuring layered flavors of Asian pear and honeysuckle, accented by fresh mandarin peel and a touch of marzipan, leading to a zesty, focused finish.

Analysis: 9% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 61% Chardonnay, 36% Pinot Noir, 3% Pinot Meunier
Critical Acclaim:

  • 90 Points – James Suckling: A really fresh nose with green apples, limes and green papaya. Light to medium body, bright acidity and a fresh finish. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Drink now.
  • 90 Points – Wine Enthusiast: Flavorful and polished, this supple wine blends subtle apple and pear notes with buttery, creamy accents. It is rich in character and softly framed by fine bubbles and elegant acidity, with a hint of sweetness on the finish.

About the Winery:
J Vineyards & Winery, located in the heart of Sonoma County’s Russian River Valley, is renowned for its exceptional sparkling and varietal wines. Founded in 1986 by Judy Jordan, the winery is celebrated for its commitment to quality and innovation. It combines traditional winemaking techniques with sustainable practices across its estate vineyards, which are meticulously cultivated to highlight the unique terroir of the region. Learn more here.

Photo and Information © J Vineyards & Winery and Ed’s Fine Wines – All Rights Reserved

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December Bubbly Club Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubGustave_Lorentz_Cremant_dAlsace_bow-bottle-imageGustave Lorentz
Crémant d’Alsace
Brut
AOC Alsace, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The balance and freshness of Crémant d’Alsace comes from the subtle match of four grape varieties: Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 60% Pinot Blanc, 18% Pinot Gris, 12% Pinot Noir, 10% Chardonnay
Total Acidity: 5.05 g/L
Residual Sugar: 10 g/L
Region: AOC Alsace, France
Producer: Gustave Lorentz

VINIFICATION:
The grapes are carefully selected and vinified according to the “Methode Champenoise”. After traditional fermentation “vin de base” in tanks, a second fermentation “prise de mousse” takes place in the cool cellars. It does not undergo malolactic fermentation. Aging is done “sur lie” over 14 to 18 months with daily bottle rotation, going from a horizontal to vertical position, in order for the yeast deposit to accumulate in the neck of the bottle. At the time of disgorgement, the neck is frozen and enclosed in ice, the sediment is ejected by natural pressure, after which the bottle is corked and wired.

Gustave_Lorentz_Cremant_dAlsace_Brut_Rose_bow-bottle-imageGustave Lorentz
Crémant d’Alsace
Brut Rosé
AOC Alsace, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Crément d’Alsace Rosé is made from Pinot Noir, which is full of charm and elegance. It makes a refined aperitif and an ideal cocktail or reception drink. Fresh and discreetly fruity, it inspires a host of gastronomic matches.

One of the outstanding wines is the Crémant d’Alsace Brut Rosé, made of 100% Pinot Noir. Having been aged for nearly four years and made in the traditional method, its pleasing aroma and lively acidity demonstrate all that is great about Gustave Lorentz.

Analysis: 12.3% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Total Acidity: 5.6 g/L
Residual Sugar: 7.8 g/L
Region: AOC Alsace, France
Producer: Gustave Lorentz

VINIFICATION:
The grapes are carefully selected and vinified according to “Methode Champenoise”. After traditional fermentation “vin de base” in tanks, a second fermentation, (“prise de mousse”) takes place in the cool cellars. It does not undergo malolactic fermentation. Aging is done “sur lie” between 14 and 18 months, with daily bottle rotation, going from a horizontal to vertical position, in order for the yeast deposit to accumulate in the neck of the bottle. At the time of disgorgement, the neck is frozen and enclosed in ice, the sediment is ejected by natural pressure, after which the bottle is corked and wired.

ABOUT THE WINERY:

“The essence of our wines stems from the close relationship between grape variety, terroir and climate.” – Gustave Lorentz

Since its founding in 1836, there have been seven generations of family tradition, currently helmed by sixth generation Georges Lorentz; with that kind of legacy comes innovation. Gustave Lorentz was among the first producers in Alsace to use stelvin closures and was certified organic by Ecocert in 2012. Gustave Lorentz vineyards are nestled in the hills of Altenberg de Bergheim in the Vosges Mountains on 85 acres, with four acres on the hills of Grand Cru Kanzlerberg and 30 in the Altenberg de Bergheim. Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Blanc varieties, all vinified separately, make up the majority of plantings of these exceptional vineyards, along with smatterings of other varieties. The wines have been described as “gastronomic”, being a perfect partner to any type of cuisine.  To learn more about Gustave Lorentz Winery and family, click here.

Photos and Information © Quintessential and Gustave Lorentz – All Rights Reserved

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November Bubbly Club Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubCalvet-Grand-Brut-bottleCalvet
Crémant de Bordeaux
Brut
Bordeaux, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Beautiful golden yellow in color with very fine and persistent bubbles, this sparkling wine has an expressive nose of yellow fruit and brioche with a fresh and balanced palate.

Varietal: 70% Sémillon, 30% Cabernet Franc
Appellation: Crémant de Bordeaux (Appellation d’Origine Protégée), France
Serving Temperature: 46.4ºF – 50ºF
Serving Recommendation: To be enjoyed on its own or with dessert

WINEMAKING:
The grapes are manually harvested in small boxes, pressed and settled. The vinification follows the traditional method: first the juice is fermented at a low temperature to preserve the freshness of the bubbles. Then, when the wine is bottled, the second fermentation begins and lasts 9 months; this step transforms wine into sparkling wine.

ABOUT CRÉMANT DE BORDEAUX: Crémant de Bordeaux became an official appellation in 1990 (similar to the Champagne region).  Crémant is french for “creamy” and Crémant de Bordeaux is the name of all sparkling wines produced in the Bordeaux region using the methode traditionelle.  The appellation encompasses over 500 vineyards and all grapes must be hand picked and aged for a minimum of 12 months to be categorized as a Crémant de Bordeaux.  

Calvet-Rose-Brut-bottleCalvet
Crémant de Bordeaux
Brut Rosé
Bordeaux, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Intense rose color with very fine persistent bubbles. This is a fine and fruity sparkling wine. The nose is very fine and pleasant with red-fruit notes, while the palate is highly aromatic, with a long and complex finish.

Varietal: 100% Cabernet Franc
Appellation: Crémant de Bordeaux (Appellation d’Origine Protégée), France
Serving Temperature: 50ºF
Serving Recommendation: Perfect as an aperitif. Its fruity notes will also complement delicate tarts and fruit cocktails.
Awards: Silver – Meilleur Effervescent du Monde 2013

WINEMAKING:
The grapes are manually harvested in small boxes, pressed and settled. The vinification follows the traditional method: first the juice is fermented at a low temperature to preserve the freshness of the bubbles. Then, when the wine is bottled, the second fermentation begins and lasts 9 months; this step transforms wine into sparkling wine.

ABOUT CALVET WINES:
Calvet Wines, with a history dating back to 1818, is a prestigious French winery. They have been crafting exceptional wines for generations, focusing on the unique terroirs of Bordeaux and the expertise of their winemakers. Calvet is celebrated for its commitment to quality and is recognized as a symbol of excellence in French winemaking. Learn more here. 

Photos and Information © Calvet – All Rights Reserved

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