Tag Archives: Sparkling Wine

July Bubbly Club Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubMumm-Napa-Cuvee-bottleMumm Napa
Cuvée M
Napa Valley, California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

A slightly sweet sparkling wine, Cuvée M appeals to sparkling wine aficionados with a bit of a sweet tooth. This soft, elegant wine that showcases powerful, ripe fruit flavors of Napa Valley. Cuvée M highlights a graceful stream of fine bubbles and a lovely peach-rose hue. It has fresh white and yellow stone fruit aromas, complemented by notes of wild strawberry, fresh baked bread, vanilla and honey. Layers of ripe peach with subtle hints of mandarin orange combine with crisp citrus tones, leading to a long, satisfying finish. The complex bouquet works seamlessly for champagne cocktails, paired with hors d’oeuvres, spicy entrées and creamy desserts.

Varietal: 45% Chardonnay, 45% Pinot Noir, 10% Pinot Gris/Pinot Meunier
Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Style: Sec
Residual Sugar (Dosage): 3.00%
TA: 6.7 g/L
pH: 3.01
Time en Tirage: 16 months
Aging Potential: Drink now
Critical Acclaim: 91 Points – Wine Enthusiast

Method:
The Cuvée M grapes are harvested during the crisp morning hours to ensure they arrive at the winery in pristine condition. Fermentation is conducted at cool temperatures, mainly in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and fruit intensity. A few selected lots are aged in French oak barrels to add depth, complexity and spiciness to the final blend. After initial fermentation, the art of the blending begins. The winemakers find the perfect blend of wines to create their taste and style. Then the finished blend is bottled for the second fermentation. An average of 16 months yeast aging adds complexity, contributing subtle bread dough flavors and layers of creaminess. Disgorged as a Sec style (3.00% RS), Cuvée M’s final dosage is designed to highlight the beautiful, ripe stone fruit characters of the blend.

Photos and Information © Mumm Napa – All Rights Reserved

Mumm-Napa-brut-rose-bottleMumm Napa
Brut Rosé
Napa Valley, California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Mumm Napa signature Rosé has an eye-catching, beautiful pink coral color with vivid aromas of black cherries, red berries and citrus. The palate showcases soft, red fruit flavors that are rich and mouth-filling, yet retain the elegant character that is Mumm Napa’s trademark. This wildly versatile and food friendly wine (from salmon and sushi to duck), it’s the perfect fit for date night or a girls night out.

Varietal: 69% Pinot Noir, 29% Chardonnay, 2% Pinot Meunier
Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Style: Brut
Residual Sugar (Dosage): 1.08%
TA: 6.8 g/L
pH: 3.05
Time en Tirage: 16 months
Aging Potential: Drink now
Critical Acclaim: 92 Points – Wine Enthusiast

Method:
Brut Rosé grapes are harvested during the cool morning hours to ensure they arrive at the winery in pristine condition. Fermentation is conducted at cool temperatures in stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness and fruit intensity. A small amount of red Pinot Noir is added to the blend before bottling to create the beautiful pink coral color. An average of 16 months yeast aging adds complexity, contributing subtle bread dough flavors and layers of creaminess. The wine is then disgorged and a dosage added back to balance the wine’s acidity.

About Mumm Napa:
The Mumm Napa roots can be traced back to GH Mumm, the leading international champagne brand in France. Established in California in the late 1970s, Mumm Napa follows traditional wine making techniques of its French heritage to create the finest, hand-crafted sparkling wines. Their dedication to quality has been rewarded with accolades and awards over the decades. Learn more about the winery’s history and vineyards here.

Photos and Information © Mumm Napa – All Rights Reserved

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June Bubbly Club Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubAvissi
Prosecco DOC
Prosecco, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Just as Champagne is synonymous with the sparkling wine region of Champagne, France, Italy’s famous sparkling wine region is the Prosecco DOC zone located in Veneto, Italy.  At the center of it all is a lovely grape called Glera, previously known as Prosecco (renamed in 2009) and an equally lovely village called Prosecco. Prosecco sparkling wines are made in the Charmat method, a lighter style with more delicate bubbles than its French counterpart in Champagne.

Avissi is clean and bright, a crisp sparkler with soft, elegant bubbles that flutter in the glass, giving a lovely effervescence to each sip. A beautiful balance of heady floral notes and luscious fruit makes it imminently approachable. That’s why we love it with take-out after work, all dressed up on a Saturday night, or brunch on Sunday.

Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Glera (Prosecco)
Residual Sugar: 14.8 g/L
TA: 5.8 g/L
Appellation: Prosecco DOC, Veneto, Italy
Critical Acclaim: 92 Points – Tasting Panel Magazine

About Avissi Winery:
Located in a scenic village in northern Italy where Prosecco has flourished for hundreds of years, Avissi celebrates traditions, while bringing a new light to them. Grapes for Avissi are selected from small parcels of Glera vines grown throughout the Prosecco DOC. These vineyard blocks are faithfully tended to by families of winegrowers, who have farmed the vineyards for many generations. Avissi wines are crafted in small batches using concrete fermentation tanks, elevating the quality of the wine – a nuance you’ll be able to taste in the glass. Learn more about the Avissi winery here. 

Photos and Information © Avissi Wines – All Rights Reserved

La Gioiosa Et Amorosa
Prosecco Rosé
Millesimato DOC
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The nose is subtle and fresh, offering hints of small red fruits. Notes of rose and pomegranate complete this elegant and intense aromatic profile. On the palate, it is silky and full, presenting a very pleasant balance between the fruity and floral notes.

Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Varietal: Glera & Pinot Nero (Prosecco & Pinot Noir)
Sugar Content: 12 g/L
Region: Valdobbiadene, Veneto, Italy
Production Area: Vineyards in northeastern Italy (Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia) with alluvial soils rich in marl (carbonate minerals, clays, and silt).
Harvest: Pinot Nero grapes are picked in late August and the Glera grapes in mid-September.
Aging: Cold storage of the must in stainless steel tanks.
Food Pairings: Excellent as an aperitif. Ideal with finger foods and Mediterranean first courses.
Serving Temperature: 46.4ºF
Critical Acclaim: 90pts James Suckling, 2020

WINEMAKING:
Whole white clusters are soft-pressed in a bladder press. After an initial racking, the resulting must is transferred to temperature-controlled tanks where it remains until it is used for the production of the sparkling wine. After pressing, the red grapes are transferred into tanks and undergo gentle maceration for color and tannin extraction. Fermentation is carried out at 71.6ºF-73.4ºF to preserve the wine’s aromas.

SECOND FERMENTATION:
The white must and a small amount of the red must are blended together. Next, selected yeast is added to the resulting cuvée in vats where fermentation takes place at 59ºF-60.8ºF to enhance the fruits natural aromas. When the desired alcohol level and amount of residual sugar is obtained, fermentation is arrested by means of temperature control. After being aged for at least two months on its lees, the sparkling wine is ready for bottling.

La Gioiosa Et Amorosa
Prosecco Brut
Treviso DOC
Veneto, Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Very pale straw yellow in color with a fine, persistent perlage. The aroma is fruity and flowery with hints of ripe golden apple and small mountain flowers. The dry, fresh and flavorsome sensation on the palate is followed by a fruity and harmonious aftertaste.

Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Glera (Prosecco)
Sugar Content: 14 g/L
Region: Veneto, Italy
Production Area: Extends in the province of Treviso in the DOC area of Prosecco – including the hills of morainic origin, over the plain with medium textured soils of alluvial origin.
Training Method: Single espalier, double canopy and radiating systems
Aging: Stainless steel tanks
Food Pairings: Excellent as an aperitif to accompany savories; or ideal with steamed shellfish.
Serving Temperature: 42.8ºF-46.4ºF
Critical Acclaim: 93pts Bevtest 2021

VINIFICATION:
The grapes are harvested and pressed before the must is transferred to a temperature-controlled tank and chilled to slightly above freezing. The must is racked to a temperature-controlled pressurized tank (autoclave) where the first fermentation is provoked. Wine is stabilized using temperature control and second fermentation is provoked as well.

SECOND FERMENTATION:
The must is put into vessels where the fermentation takes place at 59ºF-60.8ºF to enhance all the harvest fragrances. Upon reaching the required alcohol and sugar content, the fermentation is stopped by refrigeration.

ABOUT LA GIOIOSA WINERY:
La Gioiosa is characterized by long traditions and an extraordinary attitude towards innovation and research. Their desire to produce wines in accordance to their own innovative, high quality and sustainable practices – from the vineyard to the bottle – have led them to support projects such as the Wine Research Team and the certification of Biodiversity Friend. Their mission is to share the magic of its bubbles in the world, with respect for the environment and for a healthier future of our planet. Learn more here.

Photos and Information © Ethica Wines and La Gioiosa – All Rights Reserved

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May Bubbly Club Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubFB_Brut_Wine_Bottle_ImageFrench Blue
Crémant de Bordeaux Brut
Bordeaux, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This Brut wine is pale gold in color with an elegant stream of fine bubbles. It is complex on the nose, with white flowers, sweet almonds and a touch of wild strawberry. It has a creamy mousse with brioche notes on the finish.

Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 80% Merlot, 13% Sémillon, 7% Muscadelle
Residual Sugar: 10 g/L
TA: 6.8 g/L
Appellation: Crémant de Bordeaux (AOC)
Growing Region: Nouvelle-Aquitaine/Bordeaux
Winemaking Style: Méthode Traditionnelle
Winemaker: Stephanie Rivin

FB_Brut_Rose_Bottle_ImageFrench Blue
Crémant de Bordeaux Brut Rosé
Bordeaux, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Salmon pink in color with elegant bubbles. There are aromas of raspberry, red currants and a fresh hint of mint. Perfectly balanced mousse with hints of vanilla on the finish.

Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 99% Merlot, 1% Malbec
Residual Sugar: 9 g/L
TA: 5.8 g/L
Appellation: Crémant de Bordeaux (AOC)
Growing Region: Nouvelle-Aquitaine/Bordeaux
Winemaking Style: Méthode Traditionnelle
Winemaker: Stephanie Rivin

WINEMAKING NOTES:
“The Bordeaux region of France is highly renowned for producing the best wines in the world. A much lesser known fact is that since 1990 the same region has been producing sparkling wines (Crémant de Bordeaux) “Méthode Traditionnelle” which are the equal, if not superior, to many champagnes and at a fraction of the cost. A huge advantage in this region is that along the banks of the rivers Garonne and Dordogne exist natural caves and grottos, which are high in humidity perfectly ideal for the stockage of sparkling wines. At harvest time the grapes are picked by hand and transported to the cellars to start the vinification process. Here the grapes are pressed and undergo a first fermentation. Once bottled a second fermentation occurs. The wine is then aged sur lie for at least 12 months in order to develop depth of flavors and complexity. While on laths the horizontal bottles are subjected daily to “riddling”, a process of turning each bottle a quarter of a turn. The bottles are then degorged of any residue to leave a perfectly clear and limpid wine ready forfinal preparation” – Stephanie Rivin, Winemaker

ABOUT FRENCH BLUE WINE:
In creating French Blue Wine, Winemaker Stephanie Rivin set out to do something new: put an American twist on French wines. As a result, French Blue wines are ideal for a drawn-out lunch, a gathering of friends, or reading by the water on a hot day. It provides the best drinking experience – relaxed, bright and cheerful. 

Information and Video © French Blue Wine – All Rights Reserved

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April Bubbly Club Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubCremant-dAlsace-Lucien-Albrecht-Brut-WE_eLucien Albrecht
Crémant d’Alsace Brut
Orschwihr, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This Crémant presents a yellow pale disk with nice brilliance with fine & delicate bubbles and a regular mousse persistence. The nose reveals lots of floral & expressive aromas of fresh fruits (apple, peaches & apricots). On the palate, it develops a fruity lively feel, nice maturity & flavors of ripe fruit. 

Analysis: 12.07% alcohol / volume
Residual Sugar: 8.6 g/L
TA: 3.75 g/L
Vinification: 100% hand harvested, extended and soft pressed, 6-8 weeks controlled fermentation in stainless steel, then laid on racks for a minimum of 12 months.
Aging Potential: Enjoy it now or keep it up to 3 years
Serving Recommendation: Serve at 44.6-46.4ºF.
Food Pairing: Classic for every occasion
Awards:

  • Gold Medal Vinalies Internationales 2020
  • 91 pts. Wine Enthusiast 2020
  • 91 pts. Editor’s Choice Wine Enthusiast (Nov. 1, 2018)
  • #71 Top 100 Wines of 2018

VINTAGE:
Very mild temperatures in mid-April encouraged rapid budding and very strong vine growth. Mild and sunny flowering period produced grapes of a nice size – a good omen for the harvest conditions. An exceptionally sunny and hot summer followed. This vintage is characterized by structure and fullness and retained an astonishing freshness despite the hot August days.

Cremant-dAlsace-Lucien-Albrecht-Brut-Rose_eLucien Albrecht
Crémant d’Alsace Rosé Brut
Orschwihr, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This Crémant Rosé, made of 100% Pinot Noir, combines roundness and body into one. In the glass, there are hints of pink reflections and salmon nuances supported by elegant effervescence. Delicate red fruit character on the palate completes this wine.

Analysis: 11.98% alcohol / volume
Residual Sugar: 9.8 g/L
TA: 3.18 g/L
Vinification: 100% hand harvested, extended and soft pressed, 6-8 weeks controlled fermentation in stainless steel, then laid on racks for a minimum of 12 months.
Aging Potential: Enjoy it now or up to 3 years.
Serving Recommendation: Serve at 44.6-46.4ºF.
Food Pairing: This sparkling wine is an invitation to festive occasions
Awards:

  • Silver Vinalies Internationales 2020
  • 90 pts. Wine Enthusiast 2020

VINTAGE:
Very mild temperatures in mid-April encouraged rapid budding and very strong vine growth. Mild and sunny flowering period produced grapes of a nice size – a good omen for the harvest conditions. An exceptionally sunny and hot summer followed. The wines of this vintage are characterized by structure and fullness and retained an astonishing freshness despite the hot August days.

ABOUT CRÉMANT D’ALSACE APPELLATION D’ORIGINE CONTRÔLÉE:
Crémant d’Alsace Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée was created in 1976 to distinguish the wines obtained by the sparkling champagne method. The term “crémant” comes from Champagne, where it had fallen out of use. It was used in the recognition of the efforts made by several Alsatian winemakers, including the Maison Lucien Albrecht.

ABOUT THE WINERY:
The vineyards are mainly situated in Orschwihr, a wine-growing village in southern Alsace. From 728, Orschwihr was known under the name of Otalesvilare. From the 13th to 16th centuries, the village and its surroundings were controlled by nobility: the bishops of Strasbourg, Basel and Hapsburg in particular. Even in this era, there were strong ties to the vineyards and land as a precious asset to be cherished and glorified.

Map of Orschwihr, FranceThe Maison Lucien Albrecht’s origins can be traced back to 1698 when Balthazar Albrecht settled in Orschwihr, a small Alsatian village ideal for its growing conditions. Eight generations later, the family continues to work in these same unique terroirs creating world renowned wines. Passed down from father to son, each generation has adapted its wine-growing and wine-making methods gradually to get the very best out of the terroir, while still producing authentic wines, characteristic to Alsace. Learn more about the family history here.

Vineyards at Lucien Albrecht

Information © Crémant d’Alsace – All Rights Reserved

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March Bubbly Club Iowa

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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

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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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May Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubPrisoner-Sparkling_wine-bottleThe Prisoner Wine Company
Unshackled Sparkling
California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This brut-style California wine has a mineral profile, driven by floral notes on the nose. On the palate, there are big, bright notes of green and Fuji apples with Asian pears. Each sip features a vibrant acidity, with a crisp, clean finish.

Varietal: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
Aging: 36 months en tirage to ensure the highest quality
Serving Suggestion: For optimal flavor, refrigerate for at least three hours and serve chilled
Pairing: Serve this fruity wine with shrimp ceviche, fresh oysters, or a supreme pizza.

Prisoner-Sparkling-Rose_wine-bottleThe Prisoner Wine Company
Unshackled Sparkling Rosé
California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This brut-style California wine features a fresh, fruit-forward aroma tempered by a touch of minerality. It offers lively, bright flavors of apricot and yellow peach on the palate. Each sip features a vibrant acidity and a crisp, clean finish.

Varietal: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
Aging: 36 months en tirage to ensure the highest quality
Serving Suggestion: For optimal flavor, refrigerate for at least three hours and serve chilled

ABOUT THE WINERY:
Unshackled is a brand from The Prisoner Wine Company, and recently the official wine of Coachella VIP. It’s made for those who are looking to “break free from convention, stereotypes, and perception”. When their first wine, The Prisoner, was released about two decades ago, it swiftly changed the perception of what a red blend wine could be. Since then, the winery has grown to include a range of rule-bending blends with provocative label designs to become one of the most bold and innovative wine brands in the market. Today, their Director of Winemaking, Chrissy Wittmann and her team of over 100 growers in northern California bring together exceptional fruit to produce a family of unique wines unrestricted by tradition. Learn more about their story here or follow their Instagram @unshackledwines.

Unshackled sparkling wines

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December Bubbly Club: Iowa

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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 & François‘ house 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.

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October Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine ClubMAYLA-ROSE_PETILLANTAlella Vinícola
Mayla
Rosé Petillant
Alella, Spain

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

This attractively colored rosé has a sweet nose of red fruits. On the palate, the mouthfeel is light and fresh with flavors of red fruits.

Analysis: 11.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Red Grenache
Vineyard: Viña Rials
Aging: 6 months on lees
Yield: 35 Hl/Ha
Vine aged: 22 years
Farming: Organic without herbicide, insecticide and inorganic fertilizers
Pruning: Royat doble
Height and exposition: 100m, EST
Soil: Granites (“sualó”)
Climate: Maritime Mediterranean
Winemaker: Xavier Garcia
Annual Production: 5,000 bottles
Aging Potential: Drink now or mature for up to 3 years
Food Pairing: Ideal as an aperitif or with fresh pasta, rice dishes, or grilled snails
Recent Awards:
  • Guía Peñín 2018: 87 points
  • Guia de Vins de Catalunya 2018: 9.14 points

WINEMAKING:
“The wine was aged in stainless steel tanks on its own fine lees from November to February in order to give the wine more volume, and to prepare it to improve its evolution throughout time . The second fermentation has taken place in bottle for two months more to attain the sparkling point that we wish.” – Alella Vinícola

ona-blanc-brut-natureAlella Vinícola
Ona
Blanc de Noir Brut Nature
D.O. Alella, Spain

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

Although the Ona Blanc de Noir is a black grape variety, the color is golden with soft reflections. On the nose, there are intense, yet delicate aromas of cherries, strawberries, raspberries, peaches and clean cut grass. On the palate, the bubbles are crisp and well integrated into the wine. The wine is refreshing and highlights all of the flavors of white and red fruit with a honeyed, long finish.

Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Red Grenache
Vineyard: Viña Rials
Aging: Minimum of 12 months in bottle
Yield: 25 Hl/Ha
Vine aged: 15 years
Farming: Organic without herbicide, insecticide and inorganic fertilizers
Pruning: Royat doble
Height and exposition: 100m, EST
Soil: Granites (“sualó”)
Climate: Maritime Mediterranean
Winemaker: Xavier Garcia
Annual Production: 2,500 bottles
Aging Potential: Drink now or mature for up to 8 years
Recent Awards:
  • Guía Peñín 2018: 89 points
  • Robert Parker: 88 points
  • Guia de Vins de Catalunya 2018: 9.15 points
  • Great Premi Vinari 2015 Reserva Sparkling Wines

Alella Vinícola logoABOUT ALELLA VINÍCOLA:
Family owned and operated, Alella Vinícola has been operating in the heart of the D.O. Alella, Spain since 1906 – just over 9 miles north of Barcelona. Brothers Samuel and Xavier Garcia perform all of the tasks of managing the winery from planting the vineyards to the commercialization of their wines. The winery’s wines are characterized by the Mediterranean climate and are always produced free of herbicides, insecticides and inorganic fertilizers. Learn more about the winery here.

© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola
© Photo by Alella Vinícola

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September Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine Clubroederer-estate-brut-multi-vintage-bottleRoederer Estate
Brut
Anderson Valley, California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Roederer Estate Brut is crisp and elegant with complex flavors of pear, spice and hazelnut and is fresh, yet has great depth. It is lightly fruity with great finesse.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Appellation: Anderson Valley
Varietals: Approximately 60% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir
pH: 3.1
Residual Sugar: 12 g/L
Aging: Aged a minimum of two years on the yeast
Awards:

  • 93 Points – Wine Enthusiast, December 1, 2020
  • 93 Points – The Wine Advocate, September 2020
  • 93 Points – Decanter, July 2020
  • 92 Points – Decanter, January 2020 
  • 92 Points, Smart Buy – Wine Spectator, August 31, 2019
  • 90 Points – Wine & Spirits, August 2019
  • 92 Points, Best Buy – Wine & Spirits, August 2018
  • 93 Points, #27 Top 100 Wines for 2018 – Wine Spectator, July 31, 2018

ABOUT ROEDERER ESTATE:
Founded in 1982, Roederer Estate is among a very few California sparkling wine houses that only sources estate-grown fruit and builds upon a centuries-old tradition of winemaking. Nestled in Mendocino County’s Anderson Valley, the Estate’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean allows the grapes to mature slowly on the vine and develop full varietal character. Learn more about the Estate here.

Cremant-dAlsace-Lucien-Albrecht-Brut-Rose_eLucien Albrecht
Le Crémant d’Alsace Rosé Brut
Alsace, France

BUBBLY WINE STYLE

The Crémant Rosé has nice pink reflections and salmon tones supported by an elegant effervescence. On the palate, there are notes of delicate red fruit that bring roundness and body together to make a complete wine.

Analysis: 11.98% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Residual Sugar: 9.8 g/L
Total Acidity: 3.18 g/L
Vinification: 100% hand harvested, extended and soft pressed, 6-8 weeks controlled fermentation in stainless steel, then laid on racks for a minimum of 12 months.
Aging Capacity: Enjoy it now or keep it up to 3 years
Serving Temperature: 44.6ºF-46.4ºF
Pairings: Excellent for festive occasions.
Awards:

  • Silver Vinalies Internationales 2020
  • 90 points – Wine Enthusiast 2020

ABOUT CRÉMANT D’ALSACE APPELLATION D’ORIGINE CONTRÔLÉE:
“Crémant d’Alsace Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée was created in 1976 to distinguish the wines obtained by the sparkling champagne method. The term “crémant” comes from Champagne where it was fallen in disuse. It was the recognition of the efforts made by several Alsatian winemakers, including the Maison Lucien Albrecht.” – Lucien Albrecht

ABOUT THE WINERY:
The Maison Lucien Albrecht’s origins can be traced back to 1698 when Balthazar Albrecht settled in Orschwihr, a small Alsatian village ideal for it’s growing conditions. Eight generations later, the family continues to work in these same unique terroirs creating world renowned wines. Passed down from father to son, each generation has adapted its wine-growing and wine-making methods gradually to get the very best out of the terroir, while still producing authentic wines, characteristic to Alsace. Learn more about the family history here.

© Photo by Lucien Albrecht
© Photo by Lucien Albrecht
© Photo by Lucien Albrecht

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