From the family that makes the finest American sparkling wine. Their experience with Pinot Noir dates back to 1967, when Jack and Jamie Davies first used this elegant red varietal to make their inaugural vintage of Schramsberg Blanc de Noirs sparkling wine. They’ve expanded to making fine pinot noir and cabernet sauvignon wines in addition to their sparkling wines.
Napa Valley is making wine that they want you to drink right away, some costing hundreds of dollars. This IS NOT my philosophy. I believe there are wines made to drink in the moment, $15-$30 range, well-crafted, terroir-driven wines. This blog is about enjoying those while we wait patiently for the ones that were made to mature in the bottle.
We purchased this at Schramsberg Vineyards in Calistoga, California in 2019 where my wife fell in love with the soft supple mouth feel, similar to a great burgundy. This being Valentine’s day, why wouldn’t I open a bottle to enjoy with her over Beef Wellington and steamed broccoli.
Deep ruby with a slight “port-like” nose, soft and supple on the palate, fresh dark fruit with a tea, tobacco spice finish. This wine should mature nicely on its side for at least another 5 years when it will reach peak maturity. It is a higher-alcohol wine, coming in at 14.3%. $70. Retail