2007 Schramsberg J. Schram Rosé

Another effort, and one that I intend to purchase and serve to guests, is the 2007 J. Schram Rosé, which has a North Coast appellation and is 51% barrel-fermented (1,200 cases). The wine is a blend of 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir. This is a killer sparking rosé, and really the best sparkling wine I've ever tasted from California or the New World. Rich, full-bodied, with notes of strawberry, kirsch, cherries and rose petals. The wine has terrific intensity, wonderful freshness, a full-bodied, gorgeously proportioned mouthfeel and a long, long finish.