Our Tasting Impressions
Having learned well how Tressallier can elevate Chardonnay, this Blanc de Blancs sparkler was welcomed with great anticipation. It has depth and weight from Chardonnay and the cut, lift and energy from Tressallier. A delightful aperitif with quite an elegant mousse that might just cause Champagne producers to steal some of Saint Pourçain's unique vines. Yum!
About this wine
A blend of Chardonnay and Tressallier to produce a méthode traditionelle Blanc de Blancs. All aspects of production are performed at Domaine de Bellevue.
About the grape blend
Chardonnay, believed to have originated in Burgundy, is grown everywhere and is the most popular wine variety in the US. Winemakers love the green-skinned grape as well because it’s so easy to grow and adapt to many different production techniques.
Despite its popularity, Chardonnay is viewed by some as lacking in acidity, too buttery and tending to be flabby. In fairness, these characterizations often have more to do with the practice of malolactic fermentation and/or oak aging - both common in Chardonnay production.
Tressallier is a little known grape exclusive to Saint-Pourcain, though it is grown as well in northern Burgundy, where it's called Sacy. It fell out of favor for quite some time. Even Domaine de Bellevue only resumed using it about 20 years ago. It grows in mid-sized clusters and the grapes are juicy and very acidic. It produces light, vivid and very fresh tasting wine that add cut and punch when paired with Chardonnay.
Suggested Glassware: Grassl Liberté
