Schramsberg J. Schram 2010

From the inception of Schramsberg’s efforts in 1965, the winery has sought to achieve the greatest elegance and individuality possible in our sparkling wines. J. Schram epitomizes Schramsberg’s philosophy to create a wine in which no effort has been spared and no care has been omitted. Representing only 3% of the winery’s annual production, the Chardonnay-focused J. Schram blend is assembled from the very best base wine lots of the approximately 300 produced each year. This special bottling is dedicated to Schramsberg’s founder, Jacob Schram, and has been a great success since its premier 1987 vintage was released in 1992.

Sourced: 68% Napa, 25% Sonoma, 5% Mendocino, 2% Marin

Blend: 84% Chardonnay, 16% Pinot Noir

Alcohol: 12.4%

97 POINTS - "This dry and beautifully aged bubbly is made from 84% Chardonnay and 16% Pinot Noir. Rich gold in color, it opens with fascinating and well-developed aromas of toasted baguette, toasted walnuts and marzipan, followed by a warm, buttery flavor that's backed by baked apple and cinnamon. The fine-beaded texture is luxurious and the finish is long and lingering. Best through 2024." - Wine Enthusiast

93 POINTS - "Opulently styled yet impeccably structured, featuring apple and lemon tart flavors, laced with notes of roasted nuts and spicy cinnamon that glide on a plush finish. Drink now through 2020." - Wine Spectator

92 POINTS - "Sean Thompson and Hugh Davies focus this wine on chardonnay (84 percent of the blend), selecting the best lots of the vintage and aging it more than seven years on the lees. This is principally Carneros fruit, from Schwarze, Hudson and Hyde, with a significant contribution from the Keefer Ranch in Russian River Valley. Age brings richness to the wine, contrasting notes of fresh apple and white cranberry with hints of brioche and baked apple. It offers depth and refreshment, as well as a compelling lingering essence of fresh fruit." - Wine & Spirits

This sparkling wine opens with bright aromas of green apple, grilled pineapple and candied ginger, followed by nuances of lemon bar, graham cracker and nutmeg. The elegant palate features fruitful elements of apple, pear, Meyer lemon and sweet lime, layered with cinnamon spice and a pleasing finish driven by fresh fruitful acidity.