Cremant, JCB 'Caviar', France

• Wine & Spirits: 92 points

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  • Review: "This is a pale, vinous sparkler, focused by scents of spicy chamomile and high-toned lime-pith bitterness. It lasts on notes of salt, lemons and white cherries, a broad wine with tension and length." 

• Tasting Panel: 91 points

  • Review: "A slick, streamlined, and well-made blanc de blancs: Sourdough leads into soft lemon-lime notes and almond skin over an undercurrent of talcum powder and salinity." Wine.com

The JCB 'Caviar' Crémant de Bourgogne Blanc de Blancs is an elegant sparkling wine from Burgundy, France, crafted by Jean-Charles Boisset. Here's an overview of its production:

🍇 Grape Composition

• 85% Chardonnay and 15% Aligoté, sourced from three distinct areas in Burgundy:

  • Mâconnais (South): Contributes richness and vibrant fruit character.

  • Châtillonnais and Yonne (North): Provide crisp vivacity and freshness.

🏞️ Terroir

• The vineyards are planted on limestone-based soils, imparting minerality and elegance to the wine.

🧪 Winemaking Process

1. Harvesting & Pressing:

   • Grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed to obtain a clear must.

2. First Fermentation:

   • Fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve freshness.

   • Blending:

   • The Chardonnay and Aligoté are blended to achieve the desired profile.

   • Second Fermentation:

   • Following the traditional method (Méthode Traditionnelle), the wine undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle.

3. Aging on Lees:

   • The wine is aged on its lees for a minimum of 18 months, enhancing complexity and imparting buttery, brioche notes. 

🥂 Tasting Notes

• Aromas: White blossoms and citrus, evolving into buttery and brioche nuances.

• Palate: Full-bodied and rounded, with a fine mousse and vibrant acidity, leading to a lingering finish.

🍽️ Food Pairing

• Designed to complement delicate dishes, it pairs exceptionally well with caviar, seafood, and fresh oysters, enhancing the dining experience with its crispness and elegance. 

This meticulous production process results in a sparkling wine that embodies the finesse and tradition of Burgundy's winemaking heritage.