Nose
The 2009 Crémant has a complex, tropical nose of candied pineapple and guava, with nuances of dried orange and delicate red raspberry. The fruitful aromas are complemented by notes of caramelized brown sugar and hazelnut.
Palate
The palate is crisp and refreshing on entry with tropical flavors of papaya, mango and juicy pineapple. This sparkling wine offers rich flavors, viscous texture and a long, lingering finish.
Growing Conditions
County Composition: 95% Napa, 3% Mendocino, 1% Sonoma, 1% Marin
Harvest
Harvest Date(s): September 12-October 5
Winemaking
Crémant is French for “creamy” and traditionally refers to a wine with light effervescence. It has approximately two-thirds the pressure of the other sparkling wines and presents a creamier texture with more exotic flavors. After rigorous study, Jack and Jamie Davies chose a unique California grape named Flora (a cross of Sémillon and Gewürztraminer developed at UC Davis) to be the core component of this sparkling wine. Flora unites the fruit-forward character of Gewürztraminer with the strength, depth and minerality of Sémillon.
Barrel Fermentation: 9%
Aging
Aging on the yeast for two years prior to disgorgement adds complexity, yet the wine will retain its youthful appeal for 20 years or more.
Food Pairing
The sweetness in Crémant is subtle, providing a fine balance with desserts, such as fruit tarts, poached fruits, light cakes, custards, exotic sorbets, gingerbread and crème brûlée. It also complements a wide range of spicy Asian foods, blue cheeses, and matches especially well with foie gras.