2021 Schramsberg Blanc de Blanc

The 2021 Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs is a distinguished sparkling wine crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, showcasing the winery’s commitment to quality and tradition.

Tasting Notes

• Aromas: This wine opens with vibrant scents of fresh Granny Smith apple, lemon-lime, and freshly baked bread, interwoven with subtle hints of baked pineapple and toasted almonds.
• Flavors: On the palate, it delivers lively flavors of Meyer lemon and tart apple, providing a dynamic mid-palate experience that culminates in a clean, palate-cleansing finish.

Food Pairings

The 2021 Blanc de Blancs’ crisp acidity and bright fruit profile make it a versatile companion for various dishes:

• Seafood: Fresh oysters, crab cakes, ceviche, and grilled sea bass.
• Poultry: Lemon chicken and Thai curries.
• Cheeses: Aged Gouda, other hard cheeses, and as a counterpoint to soft triple creams.

Vineyard Technical Specifications

• Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay.
• County Composition: 66% Sonoma, 31% Napa, 2% Mendocino, 1% Marin.
• Appellation: North Coast.
• Harvest Dates: August 11 – September 29, 2021.
• Barrel Fermentation: 18%.
• Alcohol Content: 12.3%.
• Total Acidity: 0.90 g/100 mL.
• pH Level: 3.15.
• Residual Sugar: 0.90 g/100 mL.
• Release Date: November 15, 2023.
• Cases Produced: 46,400 (9-liter cases).

Winemaking Notes

The 2021 growing season commenced with cool temperatures and minimal rainfall, transitioning into warm summer months. The combination of hot days and cool nights facilitated steady ripening. Brief heat spikes in late August encouraged deep root development, resulting in fruit with concentrated flavors and balanced acidity.

Schramsberg’s Blanc de Blancs is crafted in a dry, crisp style. Small lots undergo barrel fermentation to enhance complexity. Following the traditional méthode champenoise, the wine undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle and matures on its yeast lees for approximately two years before disgorgement. This meticulous process ensures a sparkling wine of vibrant character and refined finish.

The 2021 Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs not only offers immediate enjoyment but also possesses the structure and acidity to age gracefully, maintaining its freshness and elegance for years to come.