The Pour: Napa Sparkle to Make a French Nose Twitch

“…dominated by pinot noir, giving it more tangible fruit flavors, though it remains crisp and elegant.”

THE CHRONICLE’S WINE SELECTIONS

“…Still young, but richly nutty, like a pie filling, with bright berry accents, ripe apple and baking spice. Grips you and carries you along, though it can be a touch uneven along the way. Perfumed and compelling.”

“Very yeasty, buttery aromas of baked apple, peach and hazelnut are beautifully integrated. Mature, well-put-together flavors of stone fruit, lemon pie, brown butter and yeast are quite creamy, yet quite vibrant as well. Long close features Sherry notes.”

“An astonishingly brilliant bubbly, one of the best ever from Schramsberg or indeed any California winery, this Pinot Noir and Chardonnay blend strikes with sheer beauty. It’s so delicate and refined yet so powerful, defining Champagne qualities of finesse and elegance. Rewarding now, but the parts are far from melding. Best 2007–2012.”