Schramsberg Vineyards

Profile: Schramsberg has one of the longest histories of all the companies in the California wine industry. The property was first planted by Jacob Schram in 1862. But it wasn't until Jack and Jamie Davies purchased the property in 1965 that Schramsberg began to reach its full potential as an American leader in sparkling wine. The Davies began by producing a blanc de blanc, quickly followed by a blanc de noir. Today they make ten different sparkling wines, including rosé and crémant, but they are most critically lauded for the J. Schram.

Wine label of Schramsberg 2003 J. Schram

2003 J. Schram
Varietal/Style: Sparkling
Origin: North Coast, CA
Vintage: 2003
Winemaker: Hugh Davies
Rating: 15.5/20
Retail Price: $100

Tasting Notes:
The American version of a prestige cuvée, J. Schram is blended from the best vines in all of Schramsberg's vineyards. A Chardonnay-focused wine, the 2003 offers baked apple and pear, citrus and vanilla aromas. Weighty on the palate, the wine fills the mouth with rich, holiday flavors of caramelized apple, vanilla, candied citrus and spice with just a hint of sourdough to add yeasty complexity. It is stunning on its own but would pair nicely with any seasonal fare from turkey and garlic mashed potatoes to crab-stuffed mushrooms to roast beef with a celery root puree. Or, save it for the grand finale and treat your guests to this bubbly with a variety of fruits and cheeses for a memorable finish to any meal.

Wine of the Week December 20, 2010:
2003 J. Schram

Other Schramsberg wines we have tasted:
Mirabelle Brut
Mirabelle Brut Rosé
1998 J. Schram Rosé
2001 Reserve
2002 J. Schram
2003 Blanc de Blancs
2005 Blanc de Noirs
2007 Blanc de Blancs
2007 Brut Rosé
2008 Blanc de Blancs
2008 Blanc de Noirs
2008 Brut Rosé
2008 Crémant Demi-Sec
2009 Blanc de Noirs
2009 Brut Rosé
2010 Blanc de Blancs

Address:
1400 Schramsberg Road
Calistoga, CA 94515
800-877-3623
www.schramsberg.com
[email protected]

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