Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs, North Coast, 2010

The Blanc de Blancs was the first wine Schramsberg produced in 1965 and was America’s first commercially produced Chardonnay-based brut sparkling wine. Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs gained international recognition in 1972 when President Nixon served the wine at the historic “Toast to Peace” in Beijing, China.

Blanc de Blancs, means “white from white,” and is made entirely from Chardonnay grapes. The Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs style is dry and crisp; small lots of malolactic- and barrel-fermented wines are added for complexity. The wine is aged on the lees in the bottle for over two years prior to disgorgement. With its vibrant, fruitful and crisp nature, this sparkling wine will maintain its freshness and structure for many years, even decades following its initial release.

The 2010 Blanc de Blancs open with fresh aromas of green apple, juicy pineapple and ripe grapefruit. The fruitful nose is complemented by developed nuances of fresh baked brioche and lemon tart. Bright flavors of grapefruit, lime and pineapple, are accented by a slight minerality on the finish. The plate is crisp on entry, with a long, tangy and refreshing acidity. While this wine can be enjoyed by itself as an apéritif, it is also a perfect pairing with fresh oysters and other shellfish, crab cakes, ceviche and grilled sea bass. It is also delicious with lemon chicken and Thai curries. Serve with aged Gouda or other hard cheeses, and as a counterpoint to soft triple creams. Wine Spectator: 90 points