Winemaker Notes
The cuvee begins fermentation in stainless steel tanks utilizing a yeast strain
chosen speci cally for our sparkling project. 20% of the wines nish primary
fermentation in neutral French oak barrels, while the remaining 80%
undergo similar oak aging once the primary fermentation is complete. The
total time on oak is approximately two months. Due to the extremely low
pH, the wines never undergo malolactic fermentation.
Professional Ratings
-
Jeb Dunnuck
Blending 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir from the estate, with another 1% of still Pinot Noir added back to the cuvée prior to tirage, the 2019 Brut Rose Escolle Vineyard exudes lovely, light layers of cherry and strawberry, lifted acidity never far from the fruit. There’s something so exciting and energetic about these sparkling wines, they’re so well-made from the cool-climate sections of an all-around cool site, capturing freshness and a feel of the ocean in a glass.
-
James Suckling
Remarkably light in color but with a nose that’s unmistakable, with ripe yet subtle red berry and cherry conserve spread on toast. On the palate these are joined by nectarines and orange marmalade, a vivacious and lengthy seam of acidity enlivening rich flavors of turned earth, hazelnuts and brioche. Drink or hold.
-
Vinous
The 2019 Brut Rosé sizzles up from the glass with lifted red fruit, spice and tons of Pinot Noir character. Rich and broad, the 2019 boasts impressive mid-palate density and energy, culminating in a long, long finish. Excellent.
What are the different types of sparkling rosé wine?
Rosé sparkling wines like Champagne, Prosecco, Cava, and others make a fun and festive alternative to regular bubbles—but don’t snub these as not as important as their clear counterparts. Rosé Champagnes (i.e., those coming from the Champagne region of France) are made in the same basic way as regular Champagne, from the same grapes and the same region. Most other regions where sparkling wine is produced, and where red grape varieties also grow, also make a rosé version.
How is sparkling rosé wine made?
There are two main methods to make rosé sparkling wine. Typically, either white wine is blended with red wine to make a rosé base wine, or only red grapes are used but spend a short period of time on their skins (maceration) to make rosé colored juice before pressing and fermentation. In either case the base wine goes through a second fermentation (the one that makes the bubbles) through any of the various sparkling wine making methods.
What gives rosé Champagne and sparkling wine their color and bubbles?
The bubbles in sparkling wine are formed when the base wine undergoes a secondary fermentation, which traps carbon dioxide inside the bottle or fermentation vessel. During this stage, the yeast cells can absorb some of the wine’s color but for the most part, the pink hue remains.
How do you serve rosé sparkling wine?
Treat rosé sparkling wine as you would treat any Champagne, Prosecco, Cava, and other sparkling wine of comparable quality. For storing in any long-term sense, these should be kept at cellar temperature, about 55F. For serving, cool to about 40F to 50F. As for drinking, the best glasses have a stem and a flute or tulip shape to allow the bead (bubbles) and beautiful rosé hue to show.
How long do rosé Champagne and sparkling wine last?
Most rosé versions of Prosecco, Champagne, Cava or others around the “$20 and under” price point are intended for early consumption. Those made using the traditional method with extended cellar time before release (e.g., Champagne or Crémant) can typically improve with age. If you are unsure, definitely consult our Customer Care team for guidance.
Perhaps the most highly regarded appellation within Monterey County, Santa Lucia Highlands AVA benefits from a combination of warm morning sunshine and brisk afternoon breezes, allowing grapes to ripen slowly and fully. The result is concentrated, flavorful wines that retain their natural acidity. Wineries here do not shy away from innovation, and place a high priority on sustainable viticultural practices.
The climatic conditions here are perfectly suited to the production of ripe, rich Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These Burgundian varieties dominate an overwhelming percentage of plantings, though growers have also found success with Syrah, Riesling and Pinot Gris.