Joseph Cattin Cremant d'Alsace Brut, Alsace

Aromas of pineapple and lemon have a gummy candy quality, equal parts serious tang and playful confectionery. Lemon zest and Alpine cheese dominate the palate, which is frothy and cracking with acidity. A bit of salinity ensures this will pair beautifully with pastas and shellfish.

90 points Layla Schlack wineenthusiast.com

Produced by the Cattin family, who have been crafting wines in Alsace since 1720, this Crémant is made from a blend of Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris, sourced from vineyards planted on limestone-rich soils. These ideal growing conditions, combined with extended aging on lees, result in a sparkling wine with freshness, complexity, and refined bubbles.

Pale gold in the glass with a fine, persistent mousse, the nose opens with aromas of green apple, white peach, and citrus blossom, complemented by hints of toasted almond and brioche. The palate is lively and well-balanced, offering flavors of crisp pear, lemon zest, and a subtle mineral edge. A creamy texture from lees aging enhances the mouthfeel, while bright acidity keeps the wine refreshing and precise. The finish is long and clean, with lingering notes of citrus and delicate nuttiness.

This Crémant d’Alsace is perfect as an apéritif but also pairs beautifully with fresh oysters, smoked salmon, or creamy goat cheese. Its balance of fruit, acidity, and minerality makes it a versatile companion for light seafood dishes, sushi, or roasted poultry. Enjoyable now for its freshness and vibrancy, it also has the potential to develop further character with short-term cellaring.