PIERRE SPARR – CREMANT D’ALSACE BRUT ROSE

Description
APPELLATION: Crémant d’Alsace AOC (awarded the region in 1976)
Alsace has been celebrated for its lovely, dry white wines for centuries. In the heart of Alsace’s finest district, the Haut-Rhin, Maison Pierre Sparr follows a 300-year-old tradition of winemaking that began during the reign of King Louis XIV. Since 1680, the Sparr family’s passion for viticulture and winemaking has passed from one generation to the next. The family’s devotion to the land, their attention to the smallest detail and their uncompromising quest for excellence can been seen in every bottle bearing the Sparr family crest.

Viticulture
Grape variety :100% Pinot Noir
In accordance with AOC rules, no irrigation; trellis system; hand-harvested
Vineyard region: Vosges hillsides and Rhine valley, from 200-400 meters in elevation, primarily eastern and southern exposure
Soil: granite, limestone, gneiss, chalky-clay
Vineyard size: 10 hectares (24.7acres);
Yield: 80 hl/ha
Age and density: 5 to 15 years; 4,000 vines per hectare
Harvest dates: September 1-10

Vinification
Whole cluster pressed; first fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel vats, transforming the must into still wine. Six months later, the two different grape varieties are blended to attain the distinct flavor profile of brut réserve. Blended wine is then bottled with a specific yeast added to re-launch the second fermentation in bottle. The riddling process lasts a minimum of 12-16 months prior to disgorgement. Finally, the dosage is added to provide the particular brut style of this sparkling wine.
Bottle aging: 12 months aging on lees
Filtration: Microfiltration
Cases exported to USA: 1,650 cases (6/750ml)

Analysis 
Residual sugar : 12.2g/l
Alcohol vol. : 12.35 % alc./vol

Tasting Notes
Dates for the beginning of harvest for each AOC are set by decree, generally one hundred days after the median date of flowering, at the time when the grapes display the best sugar-to-acid ratio. Intended vineyards for sparkling wine must be declared in advance of harvest and must be picked by hand. Grapes destined for Crémant are generally
picked a few days before those for still wines in Alsace.

Salmon pink color; fresh aromas of soft red berries, predominantly strawberry and raspberry. On the palate, round and fruity with hints of peach; the flavors are intense, with lively acidity framed by a well-made structure and delicate bubbles. The finish is smooth, clean and dry.

D’VINE ESTATES SARL Tel.:1-514-623-1680 Email: bsparr@dvine.ca