2011 J Schram:  Jack and Jamie Davis restored this historic 19th century estate and winery in 1965, south of Calistoga, California.  Made of a composite of 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay this bottling is aged for seven years on the yeast before being disgorged. The extension of malolactic fermentation in the barrel yields a creamy texture and hazelnut aromas to this sparkling.  Representing only 3% of Schramsberg’s total production, this remains the flagship of the estate, sourced from the best base wines and aged for seven years in the bottle.  A number of years ago in a blind tasting of cuvée de prestige champagnes, “the best of the best” from France, the J Schram secured the number one position among the competitors. This is a plush sparkler with mature notes of sun dried fruits and Mandarin orange, laced with marzipan and a dusting of graham cracker. All the flavors coalesce with delicate freshness and minerality.

2017 Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs: The Blanc de Blancs was the first sparkling produced by Schramsberg in 1965. Crafted from 100% Chardonnay using the “méthode champenoise” technique, it is sourced from North Coast vineyards. It is aged on the yeast for 2 years in the bottle. The accolades are always well deserved with Schramsberg, Juicy and engaging with lemon curd, slivered almonds and notes of lemongrass, it has a racy mid-palate that continues and never gives up.