2005 Schramsberg J. Schram

The 2005 J. Schram is a blend of 86% Chardonnay and 14% Pinot Noir. Generally these wines are aged six years on their yeast prior to bottling. This wine, which comes from four different northern California counties (most from Napa), exhibits a light straw color along with crisp notes of pear, apple skin and brioche in a medium-bodied, complex yet delicate style with tiny pinpoint bubbles, persistent effervescence and a dry, crisp finish. This beautiful sparkling wine is intense yet delicate. It should drink well for 6-8 years. I was blown away by these three cuvees of sparkling wines from Schramsberg. I have been a longtime critic of most California sparkling wines, especially when compared to the finest Champagnes, but all three of these offerings opened my eyes and then some. They are three totally different cuvees made by this iconic producer in Napa Valley. Tel. (707) 942-6668