2005 Schramsberg Reserve

The rich, nearly tannic, frothy 2005 Reserve (74% Pinot Noir and 26% Chardonnay) offers notes of apple pie, honeysuckle and earth. Made in a bigger, firmer, more structured style compared to the J. Schram, it is pure with persistent bubbles, and should drink nicely for 5-8 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