NV Willm - Cremant d'Alsace Brut Rose

The Willm family founded their estate in the town of Barr in 1896, at the base of the Kirchberg de Barr Grand Cru vineyard, though their roots in the region trace back to 1398. The house built its early reputation in the United States, becoming the first Alsace producer to export there after Prohibition, and its wines reportedly found a fan in Al Capone. Today Willm farms across the Haut-Rhin and produces a full range of Alsace varietals alongside its Grand Cru bottlings and Crémant program.

This rosé is made entirely from Pinot Noir, the only red grape permitted in Alsace and the sole variety authorized for Crémant d'Alsace Rosé. The grapes are picked early to preserve freshness and acidity, then vinified using the traditional method, with a secondary fermentation in bottle followed by roughly twelve months of lees aging before riddling and disgorgement. The vineyards sit at elevation in the Barr region, on soils shaped by the granite and clay of the Vosges foothills.

The glass shows a pale pink hue with fine, persistent bubbles. Aromas of cherry, raspberry, and cassis lead to a palate that is round and lightly creamy, with soft acidity and a touch of spice on the finish. It works well with charcuterie, grilled shrimp, or a berry tart.