Riondo Prosecco Rose

Saint Gregory Cuvee Alexandra Cuvee # 10 Brut | Méthode Traditionelle | 12.5% | 40% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir, and 20% Pinot Blanc | A boutique sparkler to be sure from the talented hands of Gregory Graciano, Brut Cuvee Alexandra is made from fruit grown in the lofty Potter Valley that looks out over the Russian River below in California’s Mendocino County. Only 215 are made and each bottle seen every fuss and detail from the moment it is cluster pressed through its 100% barrel fermentation, along its long, cool rest sur latte (in bottles on their side), a thorough riddling and degorgement a la glace before being muzzled under wire and cork for even further development. The results are simply marvelous. Leesy tangerine scents and toasty pear notes, a persistent bead whose streaming texture is balanced by that liqueur de Champagne and a rich body but mineral acidity that keeps it buoyant and bright despite its alto range. Best of all –it’s an absolute pleasure to drink combining intellect and hedonism. More from the winery here…
Wine review by Nicholas Livingston, November 2013