Caraccioli, a celebrated producer nestled in the Santa Lucia Highlands of California, crafts exceptional sparkling wines that capture the essence of the region. Founded with a passion for quality and tradition, the winery has become synonymous with the art of blending Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, delivering a product that rivals the finest Champagne. Their commitment to meticulous vineyard management and innovative winemaking techniques has positioned them as a leader in the sparkling wine segment.
The 2018 Brut Cuvee is a testament to this dedication, showcasing a bold yet refined character. With a harmonious blend of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir, this sparkling wine offers an enticing experience for the palate. The combination of rich flavors and vibrant minerality reflects the terroir of the Santa Lucia Highlands, providing a delightful balance that can enhance any celebration or casual gathering.
Aroma: Clean and crisp with notes of nectarine, lemon peel, apple blossom, and Asian pear.
Taste: Bright salted lemon and baked apple flavors intertwined with a steely structure.
Finish: A lingering essence of minerality and spice that rounds off the experience.
94 Vinous The 2018 Brut Cuvee, a blend of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir from the estate vineyard (Escolle), is a decidedly rich, energetic, powerful sparkling wine that feels more Champagne than Santa Lucia Highlands, and I mean that in a good way. Bright salted lemon, baked apple, chalk, sea spray and spice tones run through this beguiling, enticing sparkling wine that was clearly made with a delicate hand. Tension and minerality are here in spades to balance all that richness. This is an excellent and distinctive example of the potential of sparkling wine in the Santa Lucia Highlands. Dosage is 4 grams per liter.
92 Wine Enthusiast Clean and crisp aromas of nectarine, lemon peel, apple blossom and Asian pear are pleasant while distinctive on the nose of this bottling. It lands smoothly on the palate, where taut lemon-peel flavors ride a steely structure.
