La Crema Brut Rose, Russian River

Small-batch, hands-on techniques continued into the winery. The grapes were gently whole-cluster pressed then fermented at cool temperatures in stainless steel tanks. The base wine is blended utilizing 73% Pinot Noir and 27% Chardonnay before being placed in tirage the following spring after harvest. This sparkling wine was also crafted in the Méthode Traditionnelle, a winemaking technique utilized for sparkling wines where the wine is allowed to undergo a secondary fermentation in bottle. Aged for approximately 24 months on its lees before disgorging with a dosage of 7 g/L.

La Crema Brut Rosé from the Russian River Valley is a vibrant, beautifully poised and quietly indulgent sparkling rosé that showcases the cool coastal elegance for which this region is famous. The fruit comes from marine influenced vineyards where fog drifts in from the Pacific each morning, slowing ripening and preserving the bright acidity essential for méthode traditionnelle wines. Pinot Noir forms the backbone, supported by small parcels of Chardonnay, each harvested early to retain tension. Gentle whole bunch pressing, cool primary fermentation and a traditional secondary fermentation in bottle give the wine its fine bead, creamy texture and refined complexity. Extended lees ageing adds depth while keeping the style crisp and contemporary.

The aromatics burst with wild strawberry, raspberry and pomegranate alongside pink grapefruit, red apple and subtle cherry blossom. Beneath the fruit is a savoury backdrop of pastry cream, almond skin, wet stone and a faint coastal breeze, a nod to the fog cooled Russian River influence. As the wine warms in the glass, hints of rhubarb, mandarin peel, fresh herbs and soft florals appear, adding nuance without heaviness.

On the palate the wine is bright, silky and beautifully balanced. Juicy red berries and citrus glide across a refined mousse and lightly creamy mid palate shaped by its time on lees. Flavours of strawberry, watermelon rind, peach skin and subtle spice develop gracefully, supported by vibrant acidity that keeps the wine lively and refreshing. A fine mineral thread runs throughout, guiding the wine into a long, dry, quietly elegant finish with lingering red fruit, citrus zest and delicate floral lift.

Perfect with crab cakes, tuna tartare, sushi rolls, roast chicken, grilled prawns, charcuterie, summer salads, goat cheese, berry desserts or simply as a festive glass on its own. It brings together Californian brightness with old world finesse.