October Bubbly Club: Iowa

Bubbly Wine ClubChemistry-Blanc-de-Blancs-bottleChemistry Wine
Blanc de Blancs

Willamette Valley, Oregon

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Crafted to elevate the everyday, this non-vintage Blanc de Blancs opens with notes of warm brioche, green apple, and a hint of wet stone. Its soft, lively mousse brings out layers of candied pineapple, juicy mandarin, and a touch of vanilla. Bright, balanced, and easy to love, it’s the kind of sparkling that plays well with any crowd, from first-timers to longtime fans, and turns any moment into a reason to raise a glass.

Varietal: 87% Chardonnay, 10% Pinot Noir, 2% Pinot Munier, 0.5% Aligote, and 0.5% Pinot Blanc
Analysis: 12.5% alcohol/volume
RS: 8 g/L
pH: 3.03

Vineyard Composition:
Sourced from select vineyards across the Willamette Valley, Chemistry Wine looked beyond location and clone—focusing instead on sites that consistently yield standout fruit for this Blanc de Blancs.

Élevage:
Fermented entirely in stainless steel tanks, this wine aged on lees for 10 months, then spent another 10 months resting before release.

The Codex:
Element: Air
Season: Spring
Zodiac: Gemini
Composition: Platinum

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Sourced and shaped by the elements of Oregon, Chemistry Wine is rooted in a place where nature writes its own language. These are wines drawn from contrast: where fact meets fiction, beauty meets chaos, art meets science. Their Codex is based on Elements, Seasons, Composition and Zodiac signs.  The four Elements (water, fire, earth, air) represent the mystical building blocks of the universe. Seasons (summer, winter, fall, spring) provide a lens through which to view disposition, energy, and mood. Zodiac signs (Gemini, Virgo, Taurus, Libra) embodies mythological personality archetypes that are expressed through their wines.  Composition (platinum, stone, gold, clay) describes each wine’s imagined substances that define its sensory experience. Learn more here.

Information & Photos © Chemistry Wine and Stoller Wine Group – All Rights Reserved.


1849-rose-bottle1849 Wine Company
Sparkling Brut Rosé
France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

1849 Wine Company Brut Rosé delivers a refined, crisp character that immediately engages the senses. Bursting with lively red berry and bright citrus notes, this sparkling wine exudes a refreshing vibrancy. Its clean, invigorating finish makes it remarkably versatile—equally suited to complementing seafood, enhancing light appetizers, or standing beautifully on its own. Elegant and expressive, this Brut Rosé offers an enjoyable experience that appeals to a wide range of palates.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Established in the heart of one of France’s most celebrated wine regions, the 1849 Wine Company is devoted to crafting outstanding sparkling wines that honor the artistry and tradition of master winemakers. The winery invites you to experience the sun-soaked vineyards of France, where a passion for winemaking is rooted in a rich legacy of excellence.

Information & Photos © 1849 Wine Company and Bottle Buzz – All Rights Reserved.


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February Bubbly Club: Iowa

Bubbly Wine ClubHeart-Argyle-winery-vintage-brut-2019-bottleArgyle
Vintage Brut

Willamette Valley, Oregon

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Golden apple and Anjou Pear flavors influenced by Knudsen Vineyard fruit add to the natural weight and brightness, while vanilla and toasted cake crust sneak into the flavor mix, adding to the opulence of this blend.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 63% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir, 7% Pinot Meunier
Clones:

  • Pinot Noir: Dijon clones: 777, 667, 115 and Pommard
  • Chardonnay: Dijon clones 95, 76, 96
  • Pinot Meunier: Clone 1

Appellation: Willamette Valley, Oregon
Total Acidity: 8.9 g/L
pH: 3.05
Dosage: 2.5 g/L
Dosage Vehicle: Chardonnay
Brix at Harvest: 18.5
Fermentation: Cold fruit was gently pressed and racked into 25% Neutral Barrel, 75% stainless steel tank for fermentation and aging on the lees
Tirage: 4 years en tirage for freshness and disgorged on demand
Cases: 19,479
Critical Acclaim:

  • 2019: 92 pts – Wine Spectator
  • 2019: 91 pts – Wine Enthusiast
  • 2019: 90 pts – James Suckling

Vineyards:
Argyle farms four estate vineyards with nearly 500 acres in the Willamette Valley, with the majority in the Eola-Amity Hills and Dundee Hills nested AVAs.

Viticulture:
Regenerative farming encourages the symbiotic relationship between the earth and the vine in tandem with the development of habitats for native flora and fauna. The results from their sustainable and responsible practices includes healthier soils, energetic vineyards and fruit.

© Argyle Winery - Winemaker, Nate Klostermann

© Argyle Winery – Winemaker, Nate Klostermann

About the Winemaker:
Nate Klostermann is the 2nd winemaker in Argyle’s 35-year history and has emerged as one of Oregon’s most gifted winemakers. He currently celebrates nearly two decades at Argyle and continues to say he “landed in a good spot” when he arrived at Argyle to work his first harvest. With his fine-tuned winemaking skills and passion for Oregon wine, Nate is now recognized for making elegant and complex sparkling wines along with vibrant and impeccably balanced Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Meunier.

About the Winery:
Founded in 1987 as Oregon’s sparkling wine house, Argyle quickly stood out as a study in contrasts – honoring the deep traditions of wine and embracing innovation and experimentation; proud to be Oregonian and pulling knowledge from winemakers around the world. When common knowledge said a winery could produce great sparkling wine or great still wine Argyle asked “why not both?”, answering the question with acclaimed still and sparkling wines. Argyle is the only winery in the world to be named to Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list for Sparkling, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Deeply established in the Willamette Valley, yet young at heart, Argyle is led by stand-out winemaker Nate Klostermann, and innovative viticulturist Geoff Hall, who work together to explore and expand the possibilities of modern winemaking. Together they create world-class still and sparkling wines from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier, and Riesling. Learn more here.

Additional Accolades:

  • #1 Selling Sparkling Wine from Willamette Valley
  • Top 10 Selling Domestic Luxury Sparkling House
  • Oregon’s Best-known Champagne-Method Sparkling Wine House – Wall Street Journal
Photo and Information © Argyle Winery – All Rights Reserved

Heart-Santa-Margherita-rose-brut-bubbly-bottleSanta Margherita
Sparkling Rosé
Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Whether served at the beginning of a beautiful evening for two, or sipped throughout a lively meal with friends, this celebrated bubbly is an aromatic and vibrant treasure that is meant to be shared time and time again.

This pale pink wine brings a full bouquet of pleasing floral aromas with hints of red berries. It is artfully crafted with a blend of Glera and Chardonnay grapes with Malbec as the red varietal that lends its perfect light pink color. Its flavor is delicate, but vibrant and well-rounded. Santa Margherita Sparkling Rosé is an approachable wine that lingers on the palate; good for any occasion as an accompaniment to brunch, desserts, antipasti, seafood or intensely flavored Asian cuisines.

Analysis: 11.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal:
55% Glera, 40% Chardonnay, 5% Malbec
Sugar Content:
8.3 g/750ml
Aspect & Elevation: 1-1,150 feet above sea level
Soil Type: Fluvial (Chardonnay), Morainic (Glera), Fluvial and Lagoon (Malbec)

Vine Training System: Guyot (Chardonnay), Sylvoz/double Guyot (Glera), Spurred cordon (Malbec)
Planting Density: 3,500-4000 vines per acre (Chardonnay), 1,215 – 1,415 vines per acre (Glera), 2,105 per vines acre (Malbec)
Harvest Period: Second half of September
Serving Temperature: 42º-46ºF
Recommended Glass: Medium-sized tulip-shaped, narrowing towards the rim
Aging Potential: Meant to be enjoyed fresh
Food Pairings: Tasty, aromatic apéritif, and an exciting companion for your food explorations: savory Italian appetizers, complex seafood dishes, and spicy, exotic Asian cuisines. It also brings a delightful sparkle to a festive brunch or your favorite rich dessert. Or enjoy with this recipe for Strawberries with Vanilla Mascarpone and Balsamic Drizzle.

Technical Information:
The blending of a fine Sparkling Rosé wine is a delicate art, and Santa Margherita is proud to share this masterpiece. They start with a white wine made from the Glera grapes used to produce Prosecco, then add Chardonnay and a small amount of Malbec to add color and richness. This tantalizing blend undergoes a month-long second fermentation followed by six months of maturation in pressurized tanks. Only then is this dry, sparkling wine ready to serve and enjoy.

The Bottle:
Featuring their family crest, the new clear glass bottle offers a fresh, contemporary look, while showcasing the lush, gorgeous color of their Sparkling Rosé. The updated label, reminiscent of Venetian design, proudly celebrates their Italian heritage. 

Did you Know?

  1. The Coat of Arms of the Marzotto family is on the neckband of every bottle of the delicious Sparkling Rosé. In 1935, the Marzotto family founded Santa Margherita, and it has been contributing to the international success of premium quality Italian wine for over 80 years.
  2. Santa Margherita loves the bees: they avoid cutting the grass between the rows of vines while the grapes are growing to protect the work of bees and other pollinating insects.
  3. Santa Margherita is vegan-friendly and has eliminated the use of all animal by-products during filtration.
  4. Santa Margherita recycles grape skins, which further reduces waste.

Santa Marghertia historic mansion

About the Winery:
Santa Margherita Winery, founded in 1935 in Italy’s Veneto region, is a pioneer in crafting elegant, approachable wines that celebrate the essence of Italian winemaking. The winery combines innovation with a deep respect for tradition and sustainability. With vineyards spanning some of Italy’s most prestigious regions, Santa Margherita produces a diverse portfolio of wines, each reflecting the unique character of its terroir. Dedicated to quality, heritage, and environmental responsibility, Santa Margherita continues to bring people together through the timeless pleasure of great wine. Learn more here.

Photo and Information © Santa Margherita – All Rights Reserved


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January Sweet Club: Iowa

Sweet Wine ClubEvolution-Riesling-bottleSokol Blosser
Evolution Riesling
Columbia Valley, Oregon

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Take in a nose-full of bright tropical fruit, citrus, and a hint of floral. This wine is bursting with mouth watering notes of lychee, lime, pineapple and peach.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Reisling
Appellation: Columbia Valley, Oregon
Winemaking: Stainless Steel Tanks
Serving Suggestion: Pair with pad see ew with prawns, chicken tikka masala, lobster with lots of butter, jambalaya and even kettle corn
Critical Acclaim:

  • 89 Points & BEST BUY – Wine Enthusiast, 2021
  • 95 Points & Best in Class – Savor NW

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Pair with a stinky blue cheese to complement the fruity notes of this wine. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Wine: With the touch of Sokol Blosser’s winemaking team and their adoration for food-loving wine, this Evolution Riesling is so zingy and bright that it will wake up your taste buds and brighten your day. They crafted a wine that will stand up to spicy curries and stinky cheeses. It’s not your grandma’s Riesling. It’s the wine for the daring wine lover. For the wine lover who likes to buck the norm and ignore the stereotypes. Like a stealthy wolf in sheep’s clothing, this Riesling is slightly sweet on the outside yet packs a punch. It has a core of acidity that grabs your attention and makes it food’s best friend.

About the Winery:
For over 50 years, the Sokol Blosser family has been putting passion into bottles at their winery in Oregon. Family owned since 1971, their story began when Susan Sokol and Bill Blosser first planted vines in the now-famous Dundee Hills of Oregon’s Willamette Valley.  As second-generation winegrowers, Alex and Alison Sokol Blosser are passionately committed to their family’s legacy of creating world-class wines.  In 1998, they poured their love for wine into Evolution – exceptionally food-friendly wines for exceptional people. Its fan base gives meaning to the word “loyal” and is spread all over North America, Europe and Asia. At the time, there were very few white blends on the market, and Evolution tapped into the niche that would become an important segment of the wine business. As word spread and Evolution made the rounds, it enjoyed extraordinary popularity. Learn more about the winery here.

Photo and Information courtesy of © Evolution by Sokol Blosser – All Rights Reserved


oreillys-salted-caramel-irishO’Reilly’s Country Cream
Salted Caramel Irish Cream
Ireland

NECTAR WINE STYLE

This wine-based salted caramel Irish Cream is made with real Irish dairy cream from Abbeyleix, the heartland of Ireland. Enjoy rich caramel and creamy toffee notes rounded off with a hint of sea salt.

Analysis: 13.9% alcohol / volume

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Pair with a young or aged Gouda cheese. A young Gouda will bring out a mild sweetness, while aged Gouda offers nutty, caramelized flavors that mirror the Irish cream. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Photo and Information courtesy of © Prestige Beverage Group and Point Wine & Spirits – All Rights Reserved


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November Premium Wine Club

Bold wine Style logoPenfolds Bin 704 Cabernet Sauv_2019-bottlePenfolds
Bin 704
Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Napa Valley, California

BOLD WINE STYLE

The color has a saturated core and luminous crimson rim. The nose is abounded with red and sweet spices of paprika, sumac, cinnamon, rose water, saffron, red currants, Iranian barberries, and pomegranate. It has a steely-coolness and ferrous minerality. French oak announces itself, cedar-y and structural, all proudly supporting a saturated mulberry and summer berry core. It’s reminiscent of scents from the pâtisserie: dark cherry pie, and milk chocolate mousse dusted with freeze dried raspberries.

The palate is defined, yet approachable. It has a silkiness to it with a gorgeous texture that glides effortlessly across the palate. Succulence, mouth-watering and appetite-inducing acidity, a find graphite core confirms the varietal’s identity. There is power lurking beneath, a dense black fruit drive—which is somewhat unexpected, yet most welcome. This confident wine can be enjoyed now or cellar for a decade or more.

Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
AVA: Napa Valley
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon
pH: 3.73
Total Acidity: 6.33 g/L
Maturation: 17 months in French oak (40% new)
Peak Drinking: Now-2036
Awards:

  • 94+ Points – Erin Larking – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate
  • 94 Points – Lisa Perrotti – Brown, The Wine Independent

Winemaker’s Notes:
Steeped in Penfolds winemaking tradition yet still embracing modernity, Bin 704 seeks to redefine Napa Valley Cabernet through a Penfolds lens. Being mindful of varietal nuances, regional essence and silk-like textural definition, the wine is nurtured in French barriques for maturation. Impressive is the cyclical nature of viticulture and winemaking and Penfolds recognizes that different hemispheres often end up being the mirror image of the other. The name Bin 704 draws inspiration from the “mirror” or “reverse” image of its Australian Bin 407 stablemate, a wine which also respects varietal expression.

Vintage Conditions:
Excellent winter rainfall ensured the soil was fully saturated at the beginning of the growing season. Spring was cooler and wetter than recent years, resulting in a two-week delay to bud-burst and flowering. May rainfall was especially helpful in maintaining the soil moisture profile. Warm summer weather had the vines moving along well making up for the slow start to the season. August was characterized by warm days and cool nights, optimal conditions for veraison. Harvest across the region was one to two weeks later than usual with yields close to long-term average. A good vintage for Cabernet Sauvignon, with grapes showing bright acidity, powdery tannins, and strong varietal flavors.

About the Winery:
Penfolds is one of Australia’s most iconic wineries, founded in 1844 by Dr. Christopher and Mary Penfold. With a history spanning over 175 years, the winery has built a legacy of crafting world-renowned wines. Penfolds blends tradition with innovation, focusing on quality, multi-regional sourcing, and a diverse portfolio that spans a wide range of varietals. The winery’s commitment to excellence has made it a symbol of premium Australian wine on the global stage.

The Bin 704 Cabernet Sauvignon, for example, is sourced from Napa Valley, marking the winery’s venture into crafting wines beyond Australia. Napa’s renowned terroir, known for producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, offers a new canvas for Penfolds’ winemaking philosophy. By combining Napa’s rich soils with their expertise, Penfolds seeks to maintain the same meticulous standards they uphold in their Australian wines. Bin 704 is a reflection of the winery’s tradition of multi-regional sourcing, blending Napa’s signature characteristics with Penfolds’ distinctive style. Learn more here.

Information & Photos © Penfolds – All Rights Reserved.


Mellow style logoVireton-Pinot-Noir_2022-bottleArchery Summit
Vireton
Pinot Noir 2022

Willamette Valley, Oregon

MELLOW WINE STYLE

The bouquet is layered, with a fruity core of raspberry, cranberry, and red currants surrounded by oak and earthen spice. Silky tannins and fresh fruit jam nudge the palate, giving way to hints of warm baking spices. A model Willamette Valley wine, the Vireton Pinot Noir is juicy, fruit-forward, kissed with slight new oak nuances while wonderfully balanced. Enjoy now through the next 5-10 years.

Analysis: 13.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
pH: 3.54
TA: 5.5 g/L
Production: 4,160 Cases
Key Facts:

  • The world-renowned Willamette Valley has become one of the most prized winegrowing regions on earth
  • Oregon is unique and offers its own distinctive voice

Viticulture & Production:
The wine puts the beauty of the Willamette Valley on a pedestal. The grapes were hand-harvested and sorted before being fermented in a combination of stainless steel, concrete, and wooden open-top vessels. For added character and nuance, they incorporated 25% whole cluster fruit in the fermentation. The tanks were pumped over twice daily until about two-thirds of the way through fermentation. At that point, they conducted daily tasting to coax the wine to finish fermentation with pump overs and manual punch downs. The wine was then pressed and put to barrel, aged for 10 months in 17% new oak to frame the bright fruit profile inherent to the unique profile from the high elevation, volcanic soils of the Willamette Valley.

Winemaker’s Notes:
Vireton Pinot Noir walks boldly into the Willamette Valley and returns with the unexpected, a kind of down-to-earth, everyday level of luxury. Not tethered to any one vineyard site, this outgoing wine instead reflects the merits of an entire region. It’s a testament to the power of multiple voices within one storied region and the strength in numbers that follows. In wine, just as in life, it’s the most intrepid who end up with the most fulfilling experiences. Vireton celebrates those experiences, whether you’re toasting another Tuesday, or celebrating something much bigger.

About the Winery:
Archery Summit, founded by Gary Andrus in 1993, is a distinguished winery located in the Dundee Hills of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, renowned for its exceptional Pinot Noir. Andrus, a veteran winemaker with a successful background in Napa Valley, was captivated by the region’s potential for producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir. Archery Summit focuses on site-specific wines, sourcing grapes from five estate vineyards and three grower sites across four American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). With a commitment to showcasing the refined flavors of place, Archery Summit continues to elevate the reputation of Willamette Valley wines on the global stage. Learn more here.

Information & Photos © Archery Summit – All Rights Reserved.


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February Sweet Club: Iowa

Sweet Wine ClubKungFuGirl-Riesling-bottle-bowCharles Smith Wines
Kung Fu Girl Riesling

Washington State

NECTAR WINE STYLE

“It takes an unconventional winemaker to make a totally unexpected dry Riesling. One night, Charles was eating Chinese takeout and watching a fight scene in a notorious martial arts film when he had an idea: a killer white wine made to be paired with Asian food.  Just like that, Kung Fu Girl was born. And it’s been kicking ass and taking names ever since.” – Charles Smith Wines

White peach, mandarin orange and apricot are delivered with a core of minerality that makes this dry Riesling shimmer with energy and freshness. Another epic vintage of Kung Fu Girl.

WINE DETAILS:

Varietal: 100% Riesling
Region: Washington State, USA
Pairings: Spicy ramen, sriracha pork tacos, Chinese takeout
Accolades:

  • 90 points – Wine Enthusiast, February 2017
  • Best Buy – Wine Enthusiast, February 2017
  • Top 100 – Wine Spectator, December 2016
  • 90 points – Wine Spectator, December 2016
  • 90 points – Wine Advocate, June 2015

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Pair with a spicy, herbal cheese. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

About the Winery:
Few winemakers have a story quite like Charles Smith. Although he was born and raised an hour from Napa Valley, California, Charles didn’t discover his love for wine until he moved to Europe. While living abroad, he managed a number of rock bands, including the famed Danish duo The Raveonettes. It was the wining and dining of a rock n’roll life on the road that sparked Charles’ passion for great wine. In 1999, while on a road trip to Walla Walla, Washington, Charles met a winemaker who convinced him to start making his own wine, true to his own story and vision. And in 2001, Charles released 330 cases of his first vintage. Eight years later, he would be named Winemaker of the Year by Food & Wine magazine and again in 2014, by Wine Enthusiast. Learn more here.

Information and photos © Charles Smith Wines – All Rights Reserved.


Willamette-Valley-Riesling-bottle-bowWillamette Valley Vineyards
Riesling

Willamette Valley, Oregon

NECTAR WINE STYLE

This riesling is classic and versatile. On the nose, this semi-sweet wine opens with a bouquet of poached pear, delicate florals and green apples. On the palate, the luscious mouthfeel displays flavors of melon, pear and nectar. The finish is wonderfully persistent with a perfect balance of sweetness and refreshing crispness. Serve well-chilled and allow it to warm in your glass for optimal enjoyment of aromas and flavors.

WINE DETAILS:

  • Analysis: 10.5% alcohol / volume
  • Varietal: Riesling
  • Appellation: Willamette Valley, Oregon
  • Pairings: Pair with spicy Asian or Mexican dishes, German-inspired dishes like sausage and schnitzel, and desserts like fruit pies, crème brûlée, or a savory artisan cheese plate.

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Pair with an aged Gouda or Fontina cheese. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

About Willamette Valley Vineyards:
The “budwood” of Willamette Valley Vineyards began long before its founding in 1983 by vintner Jim Bernau. His Dad, a Roseburg attorney, was hired by California winemaker Richard Sommer to secure one of the first winery licenses in Oregon since Prohibition. Jim’s Dad allowed small tastes of Richard’s wine at the dinner table, lighting a path that led Jim from home winemaking to studies at UC Davis and eventually Beaune, France. In 1983, with the encouragement from winemakers making their move from California, Jim cleared an old pioneer plum orchard in the Salem Hills, hidden underneath scotch broom and blackberry vines to plant Pinot Noir. Learn more here.

Information and photos © Willamette Valley Vineyards – All Rights Reserved.


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March Bubbly Club Iowa

Bubbly Wine ClubGranPassione_Prosecco_DOC_bottleGran Passione
Prosecco D.O.C. Spumante
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Crisp and delicate effervescence. A light pale yellow color, delicate and complex bouquet nose with fruity notes of peach and green apple and secondary notes of acacia and lilac. It is fresh and light on the palate, with balanced acidity and body; harmonious with a long persistent pleasant aftertaste. 

Varietal: 100% Prosecco (Glera)
Analysis:
11% alcohol / volume
Sugar: 14-16 g/L
TA: 5.5-6.0 g/L
Appellation: Processo DOC, Veneto, Italy
Harvest: Second half of September
Cellaring: 2 years
Serving Suggestions: Ideal as an aperitif, or serve with hors d’oeuvres and delicate first courses. Also wonderful with sushi, fish and shellfish. Serve at 46-50ºF.

VINIFICATION:
Grapes are hand-selected both for area of origin and overall quality. After gentle pressing of the grapes and clarification of the must, fermentation takes place in temperature controlled stainless steel vats. After fermentation is complete, a second fermentation occurs by small additions of yeasts and sugar, and takes place in glass lined tanks. This lasts for about 45 days and is known as the Martinotti-Charmat method. The resulting wine has small bubbles (less “fizzy” than champagne).

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Gran Passione wines come from Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia, lands with endless history, eternal art and lush nature. Thanks to the presence of many native vines, original and refined wines are often produced in this region. Gran Passione believes in creating elegant wines, with a classic style, for those who enjoy the simple pleasures of good wine and food. They combine the best of Italian wine traditions with a cosmopolitan vision to celebrate life, beauty and happiness. Learn more here. >

Information and Photos © Wine Sellers Ltd and Gran Passione – All Rights Reserved


Pizzolato-Prosecco-Spumante-Muse-bottleLa Cantina Pizzolato
M*USE Prosecco Spumante
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This wine opens with alluring aromas of jasmine, beeswax and Bosc pear. The juicy, elegant palate delivers green apple, lemon zest and hazelnut alongside bright acidity and refined persistent bubbles.¹ Straw yellow in color, there are aromas of golden apple, pressed flowers, white peach and mint with a soft, crisp, effervescent, dryish light body and a sleek, medium-length Meyer lemon, sage, and plantain finish. A dry and palate-opening Prosecco that will make a great aperitif.

Varietal: 100% Prosecco (Glera)
Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Acidity: 0.11 g/L

Residual Sugar: 8 g/L
Appellation: Traviso Prosecco DOC, Veneto, Italy

Terroir: Pebbly and permeable soil. Allowing good drainage.
Training System: Pendelbogen training system
Certification: BIOS Italy
Serving Suggestions: Ideal as an aperitif or enjoy with a variety of entrees.
Critical Acclaim: 
89 Points – 2021 Vinous; 88 points – 2021 Wine Enthusiast Magazine

VINEYARD:
The estate is located in the rich and flourishing countryside in the north of Treviso, and the vineyards are situated on the plains and hillsides near the Piave River.

VINIFICATION:
Grapes are handpicked and vinified using the Italian Charmat method, with temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel and secondary fermentation in sealed tanks for 30 days. The wine is then promptly bottled and released.

Information © Natural Merchants; 1. Wine Enthusiast; and 2. Tastings.com; – All Rights Reserved


Pizzolato-Fields-ProseccoLa Cantina Pizzolato
Fields Prosecco
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Made with organically farmed grapes, this wine opens with aromas of citrus blossom, and Bartlett Pear. Its bright palate showcases notes of white peach, lemon zest and almond with crisp acidity and refined bubbles.¹ 

Varietal: 100% Prosecco (Glera)
Analysis: 11.5% alcohol / volume
Acidity: 5.4 g/L

Residual Sugar: 10 g/L
Appellation: Treviso Prosecco DOC,
Veneto, Italy
Terroir: Pebbly and permeable soil. Allowing good drainage.
Training System: Pendelbogen training system
Certification: BIOS Italy
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy with sushi and sashimi, spicy Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, crab quiche, Mexican street tacos, and cured meat charcuterie boards with tangy, salty cheeses such an Italian Casatella or French Camembert.
Critical Acclaim: 
#9 Top 100 Best Buys of 2020 – 2020 Wine Enthusiast Magazine; 90 points & Best Buy – 2019 Wine Enthusiast Magazine

VINEYARD:
The estate is located in the rich and flourishing court-side in the north of Treviso, and the vineyards are situated on the plains and hillsides near Piave river.

VINIFICATION:
Grapes are handpicked and vinified using the Italian Charmat method, with temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel and secondary fermentation in sealed tanks for 30 days. The wine is then promptly bottled and released.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Organic since 1991; environment, research and sustainability are Pizzolato’s core values. Documented evidence reports the presence of the Pizzolato family in Villorba as early as 1719, and for more than five generations, the family of Settimo has owned and operated the winery and vineyards of Pizzolato Organic Wines. Choosing organic means drinking wine that has a respect for the environment. The family is dedicated to continuously learn from their environment, and they understand that this approach means each vintage will be different from the next. Learn more here. >

Information © Natural Merchants; La Cantina Pizzolato; and 1. Wine Enthusiast – All Rights Reserved


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January Bubbly Club Iowa

Bubbly Wine ClubThree-Feathers-Pinot_Pop_bottleThree Feathers Estate & Vineyard
Pinot Pop!
Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, Oregon

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This refreshing, lightly sparkling red wine is a playful product of the Pommard clone of Pinot Noir. It has aromas of strawberry and bramble-berry fruits. This wine is a fun accompaniment for potlucks and barbecues. 

Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Analysis:
11% alcohol / volume
Sugar: 18.8 Brix
pH: 3.09
Clones: Pommard
Appellation:
Chehalem Mountains, Laurelwood District AVA
Vineyard:
Torio Vineyard
Aging:
9 months in Stainless Steel
Production: 96 cases

WINEMAKER’S NOTES:
“2020 was an excellent growing season on Chehalem Mountains. Following bud break, we had dry weather for the next 10 weeks; the only rain came mid-September and harvest was sunny and clear. Fermentation and aging was in stainless steel, the fruity flavors were laid bare. Not too high in alcohol, we added carbonation to create this sparkling wine.” – Three Feathers Estate & Vineyard.

VITICULTURAL AREA:
In the heart of the Chehalem Mountains, at the Northern end of the Willamette Valley, the Three Feathers’ high-elevation vineyards are part of Oregon’s most recognized appellation of cool-climate wines. Their 155-acre Estate comprises of rolling hills from 700-1000 ft. in elevation – which form a natural heat sink, sheltered from winds, capturing summer warmth in its own natural microclimate. Ancient marine soils and respectful farming practices result in rare wines that embody this distinctive region and each growing season.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Three Feathers Estate & Vineyard produces handcrafted small-lot wines using only grapes grown on their estate. Their passion for growing and commitment to authenticity contribute to their mission of creating the best Oregon wines that reflect their terroir. Learn more here. >

Information and Photos ©  Three Feathers Estate & Vineyard – All Rights Reserved


Clover Hill_Cuvee_RoseClover Hill
Tasmanian Cuvée Rosé
Tasmania, Australia

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Delicate salmon pink in color, this wine has a soft and creamy mousse. Attractive stewed strawberry and dark cherry notes marry perfectly with the wine’s fresh brioche characters. The wine is well structured, with sweet, red berries and cream enveloping the palate. This fresh and vibrant wine is best enjoyed young, but will also reward a few years in the cellar.

Varietal: 54% Chardonnay, 43% Pinot Noir, 3% Pinot Meunier
Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Acid: 8.6 g/L

pH: 3.17
Residual Sugar: 7.5 g/L
Winemakers: Robert Heywood & Peter Warr
Critical Acclaim:

  • Best in Class ‘Best Australian NV Rosé’ – 2017 Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships
  • Perpetual Trophy, Blue Gold, Top 100 – 2017 Sydney International Wine Competition
  • 93 points and Runner up ‘Best Sparkling Rosé of the Year’ – 2018 Australian Sparkling Report
  • 94 Points – 2018 Halliday Wine Companion
  • 92 Points – 2020 Halliday Wine Companion
  • View all awards here.

WINEMAKING NOTES:
“The Clover Hill Tasmanian Cuvée NV Rosé is made from grapes sourced from Clover Hill’s vineyards in Tasmania. Expressing the freshness and vibrancy for which the apple isle is renowned, this rosé offers elegance and refinement. The winemakers used classic techniques, such as delicate grape handling, followed by cool temperature alcoholic fermentation, and then a partial malolactic fermentation to soften the natural acidity of the grapes.

Clove Hill Tasmanian Cuvée NV Rosé is crafted according to traditional methods. Fermented in the bottle, this wine is aged on yeast lees for a minimum of two years which, in addition to a careful dosage of Tasmanian Pinot Noir, ensures the premium quality that is the hallmark of Clover Hill.” – Clover Hill Wines

ABOUT CLOVER HILL WINES:
Created to rival the wines of Champagne, Clover Hill is acknowledged as one of Australia’s finest sparkling wine producers. They blend the finest traditions of Champagne, France with their own distinguished Tasmanian style, using only the traditional varieties of Champagne – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Learn more here. >

Information © Clover Hill Wines – All Rights Reserved


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February Beer Club: Iowa

BeerClubLogoSoulless-Pear-cider-BottleTen Towers Cider Co.
Soulless Pear Cider
Rickreall, Oregon

Northwest pear and apple give breath to Soulless Pear’s haunting ginger essence. For best results, enjoy 10 minutes out of the refrigerator and pair with sweet and sour pork, curry chicken salad, pizza or tomato soup.

BeerStyles: Fruity & Spicy
Style: Semi-Sweet Cider
Notes: Made with Pacific Northwest Apples; Gluten Free
ABV: 5.8% alcohol / volume


Gravitas-cider-BottleTen Towers Cider Co.
Gravitas Cider
Rickreall, Oregon

Gravitas uses 100% locally sourced Pacific Northwest apples, cold pressed and fermented slowly to retain the wonderful aromatics and flavors. Next, it’s sweetened with a blend of heirloom and dessert apples to give this semi-dry cider a crisp, clean and refreshing apple flavor profile. Enjoy on its own or pair with pork, cheese, Thai, spaghetti, or chocolate.

BeerStyles: Fruity & Spicy
Style: Semi-Dry Cider
Notes: Made with Pacific Northwest Apples; Gluten Free
ABV: 6.3% alcohol / volume


Shakti-cider_BottleTen Towers Cider Co.
Shakti Chai Tea Cider
Rickreall, Oregon

Shakti cider is balanced and delicately spiced with chai tea. Pairs well with sweet or spicy dishes. Try with French toast, poached pear, apple pie, mufins or popcorn. Or enjoy with Pad Thai or curry chicken dishes.

BeerStyles: Fruity & Spicy
Style: Semi-Sweet Cider
Notes: Made with Pacific Northwest Apples; Gluten Free
ABV: 5.5% alcohol / volume

ABOUT TEN TOWERS CIDER COMPANY:
Since 1972, the Kruger family has been making cider from neighborhood orchards in the Pacific Northwest. The family has grown all well known varieties from Red Delicious, to Crispin, Liberty, Freedom, King, Fuji, and more. It wasn’t until 2017 that Ten Towers Cider Co. was founded – their one mission, to create high quality Pacific Northwest craft ciders. Learn more about the cidery
here, and follow them on Untappd.


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LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR BEER CLUB >

 

December Bubbly Club: Iowa

Bubbly Wine Clubraptor ridge winery rose 2015 anniversaryRaptor Ridge Winery
Brut Rosé Méthode Champenoise
Anniversary Estate Cuvée Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, Oregon

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Since 1996, when the Shull’s planted Harbinger Vineyard high in the Chehalem Mountains, the site produces a lean expression of Pinot Noir in all but the warmest vintages. With over 2400 vines per acre, this single-guyot trellised site is densely planted by Oregon Standards. The top of the vineyard is about 800 feet above sea level, providing cool nights and slow ripening of the 100% Pinot Noir plantings. In the particularly cool vintage of 2011, a switch went on in Scott Shull’s brain…sparkle it! Henceforth, their approach to this 21-year old vineyard has been to focus on classic Méthode Champenoise. In 2015 Raptor Ridge Winery decided to increase the production by adding Tuscowallame Estate Pinot Noir, which comes from their highest block and contains a mixture of clones. Both vineyards are farmed identically. The base wine ferments and rests en tirage for about three years, before disgorgement and dosage to complete the wine for final bottling.

Appellation: Willamette Valley, Oregon
Analysis:
12.5% alcohol / volume
TA: 7.5 
pH: 3.37
Brix: 20.8
Case Production: 360
De-stem: 100%
Cold Soak: 96 hours

ABOUT THE RAPTOR RIDGE WINERY:
Owned and operated by Scott and Annie Shull, the duo have been nurturing Raptor Ridge for 26 years – from a “garage” winery, to the clearing of their vineyard in 2000 and the opening of their tasting room in 2010. The Shull’s winegrowing focuses on quality, consistency and intrigue. Their wines express simplicity, while also having layers of sensory complexity on the palate and mind. Learn more about their journey here.


gaspard bulles sparkling rose

Gaspard
Bulles Sparkling Rosé
Loire Valley, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

“Bulles”, meaning “bubbles” in French, is the perfect name for this wine. This sparkling, fruity Rosé is full of red berries. It makes for a perfect aperitif wine, great for any celebration, or while snacking on other nibbles.

Grapes: Pineau d’aunis
Vineyard: Clay and Limestone
Vines: 80 year-old vines, sustainable growing practices

WINEMAKING:
The grapes are handpicked, pressed. The first fermentation occurs with natural yeast in tanks. The wine is then filtered and bottled with liqueur de tirage to start the second fermentation in bottles. The wine is disgorged and topped up with more wine, zero sugar added. Total time in cellar is 36 months.

ABOUT THE GASPARD:
Gaspard is one of
Jenny & Françoishouse labels, these wines come from their exclusive cooperation with carefully selected winemakers in France and beyond. The growers they are partnered with work sustainably and organically to produce the purest wine. These Loire Valley wines focus on the nature of the wine, while also staying in a friendly budget to their consumers. All wines are made with tradition and use the most popular varieties of their regions. Learn more about their story here.

Bubbly Wine ClubLearn more about our Bubbly Club >

 

 

Winery Spotlight: Stoller Family Estate September 22nd

Wine Tasting Event

Stoller_Family_Estate_Logo_SFE_Full_Text_BLACK_w_COPPER-FE

Stoller Winery Tasting Room

Stoller Family Estate
Willamette Valley AVA
Dundee Hills, Oregon

Wednesday, September 22, 2021
6:00pm CST / 7:00pm EST

Join us for a wine tasting event, featuring Stoller Family Estate wines and sister winery Chehalem, from Willamette Valley, Oregon.

SFE-WebsiteAVAMap-2Wines Tasted:

  • Stoller Rosé Pinot Noir
  • Stoller Dundee Hills Chardonnay
  • Stoller Dundee Hills Pinot Noir
  • Stoller Reserve Pinot Noir
  • Chehalem INOX Chardonnay
  • Chehalem Mountains Pinot Gris
  • Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir

To reserve a table and attend the wine tasting in person, please call your local WineStyles store. Or if you prefer to attend remotely, from the comfort of your home, pre-order a wine tasting kit-to-go and watch on Zoom.Sept 22_Stoller Wines

About Stoller Family Estates:

Stoller Family Estate is one of the most highly regarded vineyards and wineries in Oregon. Pioneering Oregonian and Founder Bill Stoller purchased his family’s second-generation farm in 1993 with the vision of cultivating an enduring legacy for the land and Oregon wine industry. Over the last 25 years, he transformed the 400-acre property into the largest contiguous vineyard in the Dundee Hills that has become synonymous with producing exceptional wines. Stoller Family Estate features the world’s first LEED® Gold certified winery and named the Best Tasting Room in the Nation by USA Today. Learn more >

Sustainability:
Stoller Family Estates is committed to leadership in sustainable environmental practices. They have planted cover crops and wild flowers to encourage a healthy environment of beneficial insects and natural wild life – allowing them to forgo many chemical sprays. The first Northwest winery to produce solar energy, their vineyard became LIVE (Low Input Viticulture and Enology) certified in 2006 and the winery in 2009. They built their Reserve Winery and Tasting Room from high percentages of recycled materials, and their efforts in the vineyard focus on energy efficiency, safety, and wastewater treatment. Learn more here.

About Chehalem Winery:

Stoller’s sister winery, Chehalem, translates to the “Valley of Flowers” in the Native American language Calapooia. In 1993 Bill Stoller became co-owner and in early 2018 he became the sole owner of Chehalem. By July of 2018, the winery achieved the rigorous certification of B Corp status, ensuring they meet the highest standard of verified social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability. Learn more about his story here.

Let’s Taste, Learn and Enjoy® together! 

Contact your local WineStyles to RSVP for this tasting event.

Stoller Family Estate
Dayton, Oregon

September 22, 2021
6:00pm CST/ 7:00pm EST

Cheers!

WineStyles.com