Helfrich Crémant d'Alsace Brut NV

Helfrich Crémant d'Alsace Brut NV (SRP: 21.99)

The sun is finally shining and it's time to celebrate. Sparkling wines are a wonderful way to greet guests, and their light and lively character sets a festive stage for spring and summer get-togethers. Crisp and refreshing, they make great aperitifs, and most are versatile, pairing with light summer fare, but still entirely enjoyable on their own. Crémant d'Alsace, traditional method sparkling wines from Alsace, are typically fresh and lively with a delicate mousse, light body, and good acidity. Most retail for around $20, making them a value-driven alternative to more expensive options like premium-priced Champagne. These sparklers are made predominantly from Pinot Blanc, but may also be produced from Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay, or Pinot Noir (for Crémant Rosé).

Alsace, in France's northeastern corner, is sheltered by the Vosges Mountains. The vineyards run north to south in a narrow strip along the eastern side of the mountains, which protect the region from rainfall. The climate is typically sunny, hot and dry in the summer, with cool nights, which elongate the growing season. The vineyards are located in the sub-Vosgian foothills, providing excellent sun exposure. A mosaic of soil types allows producers the opportunity to match variety to soil type, and maximize the varietal characteristics of their noble grapes.

Helfrich makes a lovely Crémant d'Alsace, composed of 100% Pinot Blanc. During its second fermentation, it's aged on the lees for twenty-four months. Pale gold, with a fine mousse, the wine has a fresh, lifted nose with notes of pear, green apple, almond, and crème fraîche. Dry, with nice acidity and a light, fruity palate. Notes of lemon meringue and minerality. Pleasing, persistent finish. Enjoy now.

Helfrich also produces Pinot Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, and Grand Cru Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Gewurztraminer from the Steinklotz Vineyard, the oldest documented vineyard in Alsace.

This wine is currently distributed in New York, Washington, D.C., Maryland, Atlanta, Florida, Illinois, Detroit, Texas, and California.

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