The Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs 2021 represents a cornerstone of American sparkling wine production, continuing a legacy established by Jack and Jamie Davies in 1965. This pioneering estate was the first in California to craft a commercial Blanc de Blancs, setting a benchmark for traditional method sparkling wines in the New World.
Sourced from a mosaic of cool-climate vineyards across California's North Coast, including sites in Mendocino, Sonoma, and Napa counties, the 100% Chardonnay fruit benefits from diverse microclimates and elevations. This careful selection ensures optimal ripeness and acidity, crucial for wines destined for extended ageing. The wine undergoes primary fermentation in a combination of stainless steel and neutral oak barrels, followed by secondary fermentation in bottle and prolonged maturation on its lees, typically for two years. This meticulous process imparts a refined texture, intricate aromatics, and a distinctive complexity that defines Schramsberg's house style.
The 2021 vintage, while still young, promises the characteristic elegance and vibrancy expected from this esteemed producer, offering a compelling expression of California's potential for world-class sparkling wine.
Tasting notes
The Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs 2021 presents a luminous pale gold in the glass, with a persistent, fine mousse. The bouquet is immediately inviting, offering delicate aromas of green apple, lemon zest, and white floral notes, gracefully interwoven with subtle hints of toasted brioche and almond derived from its extended lees contact.
On the palate, it is remarkably vibrant and precise, showcasing a crisp acidity that frames a core of citrus and orchard fruit flavours. A creamy texture, a hallmark of its traditional method production, carries through to a long, refreshing finish, leaving impressions of mineral purity and a nuanced complexity. This wine is built for both immediate enjoyment and further evolution with bottle age.