Blend: Chenin Blanc, Grolleau
From: Anjou (Loire Valley), France
Taste: The Crémant de Loire Rosé boasts a stunning, brilliant salmon pink hue, complemented by a delicate mousse. Aromatically, this charming sparkling rosé is subtle and fresh, characterized by gentle notes of red berries such as raspberries and strawberries, and a touch of redcurrant. These berry notes are echoed on the palate, and the finish is refreshingly dry, lifted and lends to an extremely balanced, harmonious experience in the glass. The wine is remarkably fresh and unctuous; it shows off fresh fruit and citrus without being sweet or too savory. These qualities strike an excellent balance that makes it a delight to savor.
Pairing: Its freshness and berry notes make it an ideal companion for light starters, such as a crisp, summer salad or delicate canapés featuring smoked salmon or prosciutto (speaking of snacking-type pairings, check out the lumpia recipe below for a staff favorite wine pairing). The wine's balance and subtle berry flavors also complement seafood dishes, particularly grilled prawns or a classic (some say dated, but hey, it’s still delicious!) lobster bisque, like the recipe shown below. For a cheese pairing, consider a soft goat cheese or a creamy brie, which will beautifully contrast the wine's crispness. Additionally, this Crémant is a perfect match for fruit-based desserts, such as a raspberry tart or strawberry shortcake, accentuating the wine's inherent berry notes.
Lumpia
By Naz Deravian
Published Dec. 14, 2023
Lobster Bisque
Recipe from James Sakatos
Adapted by Sam Sifton
About this wine. In this bottle, following regional specifications, the fruit is sourced from sustainably-grown vineyards in Anjou and hand-harvested. The vineyard is located west of Brissac-Quincé and was acquired by the Brault family at the end of the 18th century, who have been running the estate since then. In 1951, they were among the first winegrowers to create the Brissac cooperative with whom they associated. Today, the family produces a wide range of Anjou AOC wines and is strongly committed to sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation. The wine is produced in the methode traditionelle, and aged for 12 months sur lattes (on its side on wood panels).
The Crémant de Loire Rosé is a sophisticated and refreshing sparkling wine, crafted from a blend of Grolleau and Chenin Blanc grapes. The grapes are meticulously hand-picked to ensure the highest quality. The winemaking process involves a first fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by a crucial second fermentation inside the bottle, aided by the addition of a tirage liqueur. This methodical approach is rounded off with a minimum aging period of 12 months on slats, lending the wine its distinct character.
