NV Mumm - Napa Napa Brut Rose (750ml)

In 1979 the French Champagne house G.H. Mumm sent winemaker Guy Devaux to find a Napa Valley site suited to traditional method sparkling wine. He settled on land along the Silverado Trail, and the winery that grew from his search still draws much of its fruit from the cool Carneros region, including the estate's Devaux Ranch vineyard, named in his honor. Mumm Napa is now part of Pernod Ricard, parent company of G.H. Mumm in Champagne.

This Brut Rosé is built mainly from Pinot Noir, with a smaller portion of Chardonnay rounding out the blend. Part of the wine is fermented in the press, a technique that gives it its soft, fruit-forward character, while the remainder adds structure and backbone. The base wines then undergo a secondary fermentation in bottle following the méthode traditionnelle before extended aging on lees.

In the glass this rosé shows a pale salmon-pink hue with a steady stream of fine bubbles. Aromas of black cherry, strawberry, and raspberry lead into a creamy, soft-textured palate balanced by lively acidity. The finish is crisp and persistent. It makes a lovely match for brunch fare like quiche, roast pork tenderloin, or a plate of fresh berries.