The Sipping Point: 12/3: Schramsberg Vineyards Sparkling Wines

The Sipping Point: 12/3: Schramsberg Vineyards Sparkling Wines

 

Sips of the Week

1. Mirabelle Brut Non-Vintage, North Coast, California($26.99, Blend: 55% Chardonnay, 45% Pinot Noir) Winemaker’s Notes: “Generous aromas of vanilla waffle cone and spun sugar are followed by rich apricot compote and ripe citrus. The palate is delicious upon entry, with flavors of bright lemon and tropical mango. In addition to the fruitful characters, the palate is layered with essences of honey and toasted almonds. The wine’s viscous and coating nature gives way to refreshing acidity on the finish.” – Winemakers Keith Hock and Hugh Davies 2. Schramsberg Brut Rose 2007, North Coast, California ($42.99, Blend: 65% Pinot Noir, 35% Chardonnay) Winemaker’s Notes: “Juicy strawberry jumps out of the glass, followed by raspberry and cherries. The berry bouquet is complimented by mandarin orange and papaya. The palate has exotic flavors of mango and cantaloupe, followed by mouthwatering citrus. A juicy viscosity leads to a long, lingering finish.” – Winemakers Keith Hock and Hugh Davies These and more Schramsberg Wines are available at Wells Discount Liquors in Baltimore or at a retailer near you.

Featured Guest

Schramsberg Vineyards is now in the hands of Jack and Jamie Davies’ youngest son, Hugh. Born in 1965, the year his parents Jack and Jamie Davies revived the historic Schramsberg Vineyards property in Napa Valley, Hugh was named President and CEO of the 40-year old sparkling wine house in 2005. At Schramsberg, Hugh has led the ongoing effort to fine-tune winemaking and grape growing techniques, building upon the winery’s venerable track record of producing award-winning sparkling wines. Schramsberg’s current stable of vineyards includes more than 90 specially selected sites in the Carneros district of Napa Valley, the Anderson Valley, and along the Sonoma and Marin coasts. For prior hands-on experience in the wine industry before joining Schramsberg, Hugh worked with Möet et Chandon in Epernay; Petaluma Winery in South Australia, and Mumm Napa Valley, among others.

Wine Sandwich of the Week (aka Food Pairing)

Stacey Adams, Cheese Expert and owner of Tastings Gourmet Market in Annapolis joins us to share some cheeses that are perfect for sparkling wine. Pair these with the Sips of the Week and you have an instant party. Stacey suggests these cheeses for your bubblies: Pierre Robert, Delices d’Argental au Truffe, Coulommiers, Parmiggiano Reggiano, and Vintage Gouda. Visit her at the Tastings Gourmet Market at 1410 Forest Drive in Annapolis to taste these or to experience her weekly cheese tastings.. Want to learn more about cheese and Champagne or Sparkling wine? Read her article Luxurious Cheeses Worthy of Champagne on her BLOG.

Tune in next week:

On 12/10 I’ll feature 2 of my favorite wines to have on hand for the holidays for parties or just to trim the tree. We’ll also talk about the secrets to ordering wine when you are out to dinner for your next holiday gathering or client meeting with Sommelier Extraordinaire Chris Coker of Blue Grass Restaurant in Federal Hill. Hope to “see” you there for these features and so much more!

Special thanks to Wells Discount Liquors, Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, Crystal Cruises, Cavit and Santa Rita Winery.

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