Seven Sparklers to Brighten Your Holidays
Sparkling wine has a long tradition in Germany, a country that currently drinks more bubbly than any other. In this month of celebrations, we’re featuring six sparklers from Germany and one from the Burgundy region of France at price points to brighten every budget.
2017 Dr. L Sparkling Riesling
Our wildly popular, budget-friendly sparkler.100% pure Riesling, made using the Charmat method. A Wine Enthusiast Best Buy with 88 points: “White-grapefruit, lemon and green-apple flavors are delightfully juicy on the palate, tinged by hints of caramelized sugar and piercing lime acidity.” It’s also very popular as a mixer for cocktails, shrubs and party punches.
Dr. Loosen Riesling Sekt Extra Dry
Made from 100% Riesling, this extra dry bubbly is made with fruit from estate vineyards in the Middle Mosel. Bottle fermented, it is brisk and refreshing, with pure Riesling fruit and crisp acidity. Wine Enthusiast gave it 90 points, saying:“Zesty green apple and crisp stone fruits are electrified by spine tingling acidity in this invigorating sekt.”
Dr. Loosen 2011 Rosé Sekt Brut (Pinot Noir)
From a small parcel of Pinot Noir vines in the famed Ürziger Würzgarten vineyard, this sparkler is released after five years on the fine lees in the bottle in the traditional Champagne method. 92 points and Editors’ Choice by Wine Enthusiast: “Blossoms and berries abound in this vibrantly composed Pinot Noir sparkling. It’s fresh and fruity while also nuanced by hints of caramel and crushed stones. A lavishly textured mousse and fine, persistent bubbles extend the elegant finish.”
Maximin Grünhauser 2015 Riesling Sekt Brut
Whole clusters of 100% healthy grapes from the Herrenberg vineyard in October 2014 were pressed with low pressure, fermented in old Fuder casks and left on the full lees until April 2015. After racking and filtering, the wine received second fermentation and maturation in the bottle, hand riddling and disgorgement: the classic “méthode champenoise.” A Wine Enthusiast Editor’s Choice with 93 points: “It’s an invigorating sip marked by vibrant lemon-lime acidity and fine persistent bubbles.”
Villa Wolf Pinot Noir Rosé Sparkling
This sparkler builds on the growing popularity of Ernst Loosen’s Villa Wolf Pinot Noir Rosé still wine and reflects the fresh and balanced style that all Villa Wolf wines strive to achieve. Enjoyable and invigorating, it’s the perfect drink to welcome friends to holiday gatherings.
Robert Weil Riesling Sekt Brut
Sourced from parcels neighboring the great Kiedrich Gräfenberg Grosse Lage vineyard, this wine is produced using the traditional methode champenoise. Primary fermentation is done in stainless steel, followed by the second fermentation in bottle and six months of maturation on the lees before disgorgement. A Wine Enthusiast Editors’ Choice with 93 points: “Laser-edged and deeply mineral, it’s enriched by hints of caramel, nut and brioche.”
Bellenos Crémant de Bourgogne Brut Blanc
Highlighting the large diversity of Burgundy terroirs, this cuvée is a blend of all the traditional grapes varieties grown in this prestigious region to combine good minerality, backbone and fullness, as well as delicate fruit aromas. Produced in the methode traditionelle, it has a lovely golden color. The nose reveals typical scents of exotic fruits with citrus overtones. On the palate, it showcases delicate white flowers and pastry aromas.
Look for these wines at your nearest store, bar or restaurant. Happy holidays from all of us at Loosen Bros. USA!