Sparkling Wine, Wine, Wine and Food Pairing, Wine Tasting

T.G.I.F. Champagne and the like – NV Domaine Ste Michelle Brut

Posted by Martin D. Redmond on

For this week’s “T.G.I.F. Champagne and the like” tasting, it’s my first sparkler from the state of Washington.  Domaine Ste. Michelle (“DSM”) is one of the largest sparkling wine houses in the U.S. producing more than 300,000 cases of value sparkling wines annually.  In addition to the Brut tasted here, they also produce Blanc de Noirs, Blanc de Blanc, and Extra Dry sparkling wines.  All are produced from Columbia Valley fruit in Washington.

Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut

NV Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut

Region: Washington>Columbia Valley

Variety – 88% Chardonnay, 12% Pinot Noir

Residual Sugar – 1.19%

Production method: Méthode Champenoise;

Alcohol by volume: 12.1%

Cost: $9 (on sale) Retail: $11

My tasting notes follow:

Appearance: Light straw color

Aromas: Sweet bread dough, apples and a touch of citrus

Body: Small dispersed bubbles with somewhat creamy mousse.  Light-bodied.  Dry on the front and mid-palate, but closer to extra-dry on the back palate with a cloying after taste 

Taste:  Fuji apples

Finish: Short

Pair with: The beauty of sparkling wines is their pairing versatility with a variety of foods.  This one would be a good aperitif, and also pair with fried calamari, Sushi, or bagel and lox for brunch.

While this won’t be confused with more expensive, complex sparklers, it’s easy, enjoyable, and a good value at $8.50. The price was certainly right!  And it’s widely available.  This a sparkler I’d buy again whenever I find it on sale (85 pts).

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