NV-C Domaine Champalou Vouvray Brut, Loire, France (750ml)   

_{A Quarterly Sparkling Wine Club Selection}
Pale yellow hue with aromas of toasted almond, honeysuckle and white peach. The flavors are under-ripe peach, green apple skin and pineapple leading to the bright, juicy and mineral-laced finish.

Catherine and Didier Champalou both came from vigneron families, yet their mutual sense of independence prompted the couple to brave it on their own right after completing viticultural school in Saumur. Since starting the domaine in 1983, they have not only grown their business, but their label is one of the most highly acclaimed in the appellation! Vouvray is home to Chenin Blanc, more commonly known as Pineau de la Loire in their part of the world. The family farms twenty-one hectares of vineyards on clay, limestone, and siliceous soils. They embrace sustainable farming while also integrating the use of the lunar calendar more traditionally associated with organic viticulture. The Champalou house style produces wines of great elegance and grace, highly aromatic with impeccable balance. There is no question that the tradition and quality for which this domaine is known will continue for many years to come. Made from 100% Chenin Blanc (as required by law) the grapes for this Vouvray Brut were picked at maturity—early in the morning to best preserve the quality of the fruit. The must was fermented in stainless steel and the wine left on fine lees before bottling, the second fermentation took place in bottle, and was then aged sur lattes for two years before disgorgement. Dosage varies from vintage to vintage with a maximum residual sugar of about 3g/L. The Vouvray Brut "Méthode Traditionnelle" is a blending of three different vintages per cuvée.