Second-generation winemaker Kimberly Kramer works with Gamay Beaujolais for this sparkling rosé in part because the upright growing University of California-Davis clone of Pinot Noir ripens more slowly than their plantings established nearly 30 years ago. Rather than worry about ripening, she targets this instead for her frothy pink program. Her head-turning presentation not only serves as a teaching moment about this grape — those who brought the plant material to the West Coast grabbed the wrong variety — but it also ranks high on the fun factor for spring releases this year. Gorgeous aromas of cherry taffy, strawberry and raspberry are joined by hints of plum juice, white peach, violets and French vanilla. Despite those hints of sweet reddish fruit, the ebullient drink takes a decidedly dry angle to the palate with rich, bright and sharp flavors of raspberry and fresh cranberry. The finish of red currant is particularly stunning.
Rating: Outstanding!
Production: 130 cases
Alcohol: 12.5%
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