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If you’re a sparkling wine enthusiast, you’ve probably pondered this question at least once: What sets Champagne apart from other sparkling wines? The answer lies in the meticulous winemaking process and the region of origin, and Mumm Napa has mastered the art of creating exceptional sparkling wines using the time-honored method traditionnelle, just like Champagne.
The simplest distinction is that Champagne is sparkling wine crafted exclusively in the Champagne region of France, adhering to strict winemaking standards. When Mumm Napa’s visionary founder, Guy Devaux, discovered the perfect terrain for growing traditional Champagne grapes in the lush Napa Valley, he brought these revered techniques with him.
What makes Champagne and Mumm Napa’s méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines truly special are the following key characteristics:
Grape Varietals: Champagne and Mumm Napa both use a unique combination of three grape varietals: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. This carefully curated trio imparts a delightful complexity and depth to the final sparkling wine.
Traditional Winemaking Process: Both Champagne and Mumm Napa wines undergo the traditional méthode champenoise, known as méthode traditionnelle outside of France. This intricate process involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle, imparting those mesmerizing bubbles we all adore.
Ageing Process: Patience is a virtue when it comes to crafting sparkling excellence. Both Champagne and Mumm Napa sparkling wines age for a minimum of 1.5 years, allowing the flavors to harmonize and evolve into a symphony of taste.
Riddling Process: The “remuage” or “riddling” process is another shared hallmark. It involves gently removing the “lees” or expired yeast from the wine after carbonation, ensuring a clean and refined taste.
While Mumm Napa proudly preserves the winemaking roots shared with Champagne, there’s always room for innovation and creativity. Our Chief Winemaker ensures that the French tradition shines through in every bottle of Mumm Napa sparkling wine.
One of the delights of Mumm Napa’s approach is the thrilling array of variations that showcase the best of California’s terroir. While some wines feature the traditional grape varietals, others, like the Blanc de Blancs, introduce a California twist with Chardonnay and Pinot Gris grapes, thriving splendidly in Napa’s gentle climate.
We also embrace the rarity of Pinot Meunier, a gem not frequently found outside of France, and offer it as a standalone or blended with other varieties in sparkling or still wines.
For a classic example of Mumm Napa’s craftsmanship, indulge in our signature Brut Prestige. Skillfully crafted with a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Pinot Gris grapes, this sparkling wine presents a dry, rich, and elegant profile that captures the essence of Mumm Napa.
As we ponder the difference between Champagne and sparkling wine, let us also celebrate the similarities in the unwavering dedication to crafting the finest quality sparkling wines. Mumm Napa’s méthode traditionnelle embraces tradition while embracing the spirit of California, producing sparkling wines that captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression.
So, raise a glass to the art of méthode traditionnelle, to the enchanting bubbles that dance on your palate, and to Mumm Napa – where the essence of Champagne meets the vibrant soul of Napa Valley. Cheers to the moments of joy, to the legacy of Guy Devaux, and to the timeless pursuit of crafting sparkling delights that tantalize the senses and bring people together.
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