D4.C17. United States of America Flashcards
Sparkling wine production in the USA dates back to..
19th century
When did the modern period for sparkling wine production begin USA?
In 1965, when Schramsberg produced a Blanc de Blancs Brut sparkling wine that was also the first commercial use of Chardonnay in an American sparkling wine
Which methods are being used to produce sparkling wines in USA?
- Traditional
- Tank
- PetNat (small amount)
Which states are the leaders for sparkling wine production in USA?
- California (most)
- Oregon
- Washington State
Tasting notes for an American traditional method sparkling wine.
- Medium intensity aromas of ripe apple and lemon
- Brioche and/or biscuit autolytic notes
- Medium (+) acidity
- Typically made in a Brut style
Is Meunier used for traditional method sparkling wines in USA?
Yes, but much less commonly than in Champagne
What is the quality/price range for American traditional method sparkling wines?
- Good to outstanding in quality
- Mid to super-premium in price
What is the distinctive property of American tank method sparkling wines?
They are often in an Extra Dry style, with noticeable residual sugar
What is the price range for American tank method sparkling wines?
Inexpensive to mid-priced
Grapes for premium sparkling wines from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are grown in which areas of California?
Predominantly in the coastal regions cooled by the cold Pacific Ocean
How is cool air and/or fog carried to the areas where grapes for premium sparkling wines are grown?
Along river valleys and gaps in the coastal mountains
Which varieties are used for tank method sparkling wines in California?
- Pinot Gris
- Pinot Blanc
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Viognier
- Syrah
- Tempranillo
What are the common vineyard and winery practices for the grapes grown in warm regions in the production of sparkling wines?
- Early harvest
- Residual sugar to compensate for under-ripe flavours
What are the most important areas in California for sparkling wine production?
- Anderson Valley
- Russian River Valley
- Carneros
- Napa Valley
- Monterey
- Edna Valley and Arroyo Grande
- Santa Maria Valley and Sta. Rita Hills
- Lodi
Which properties of Anderson Valley (Mendocino Country) make it ideal for sparkling wine production?
- Close to Pacific
- Cool ocean breezes and fog conveyed along the Navarro river valley
- Wide diurnal temperature ranges
What is the name of the significant sparkling wine producer in Anderson Valley?
Roederer Estate