Tasting Notes
The story
Crémant is a term used to describe sparkling wines from France produced using the same method as Champagne but originating from regions other than Champagne. Some can be much lighter and crisp in style, closer to Prosecco than Champagne but the Crémants de Bourgogne, especially those from Southern Burgundy, are one of France's best kept secrets as they can make a really good value alternative to champagne.
Manoir de Carra has passed through five generations of the Sambardier family and is presently run by Jean-Noel Sambardier and his two sons. The domaine has expanded from the original 4 hectares to 37 hectares of vines which are between 50 and 100-years old. Traditional methods are used where possible adapted to each individual plot to get the best out of each plot's terroir.
The vineyards are managed carefully, respecting nature and the environment. The domaine has received “High Environmental Value” (HEV) certification which aims to identify and promote environmentally-friendly practices. Manoir du Carra says "... we do not use any chemical fertilizers nor pesticides nor any synthetic products. We attach a great deal of importance to a sustainable approach. We use the most natural phytosanitary products which will take the greatest care of the environment." No sulphur is added to its wines.
The wine
This is a lovely fresh medium-bodied Crémant from Manoir du Carra, one of Beaujolais & Burgundy's top producers. It's a Blanc de Blanc as it's produced solely from Chardonnay grapes and has a beautiful floral & fruity bouquet with just a hint of Champagne aromas of biscuit and brioche. This wine has a persistent mousse; I drank it over several days just using a clip down cap on the bottle to preserve it and it kept fresh and sparkling. On the palate white fruits abound like apple and pear plus I noticed a hint of tangerine. The fruits and the light brioche flavours balance well with the fresh acidity and you are left with a long-lasting creamy, fruit finish. I can't tell you how much I love this wine!
It makes a very good alternative to Champagne given it is produced by the same method, from the same grapes and has the same characteristics as Champagne but with a lower price tag. And I still have the equally lovely and more developed
Domaine Thibert rosé Crémant in stock if you want to try a pink version.
Food Pairing
Drink on its own or with canapés, smoked salmon, caviar, shellfish including lobster, fish, chicken, turkey and desserts especially fruit based desserts such as sorbet
Producer's Notes
"Nice golden lemon color. The very thin foam unveils delicate bubbles. The nose reveals main white flowers aromas which are enhanced in the mouth by dominant white fruit aromas with some almond notes at the end."
