December 2017 Imported Wine: 2014 Gerard Bertrand Cuvee Thomas Jefferson Cremant de Limoux Brut
Fine Wine Source Wine
December 2017
Gerard Bertrand:
Brought up in the Languedoc vineyards, Gérard Bertrand is committed to sharing the characteristics and exceptional diversity of each of the terroirs of this region which produces sparkling wines, reds, whites, rosés, varietal wines or appellation wines; a rich array of promises to fulfill all tasting expectations. Twenty years of know-how ensures that wines bearing Gérard Bertrand’s signature have a unique style whose creation is driven each day by four fundamental values: excellence, authenticity, conviviality and innovation. As the Ambassador of the Mediterranean Art de Vivre, Gérard Bertrand loves to promote and share the cultural and gastronomic riches of the South of France by way of the numerous wine-tourism activities at the Hotel & Restaurant, Chateau l’Hospitalet. “My signature, Gérard Bertrand, serves to show my commitment and my approach which for the last 20 years have been aimed at revealing the unique terroirs of the region with an enduring passion and enthusiasm; qualities which the press and international competitions have regularly highlighted. Excellence, authenticity, conviviality and innovation are the values which guide me every day as I craft my wines.” From the discovery of the Tautavel man to the Roman hegemony in Narbonne, via the Visigoth occupation and the Cathar heresy, Languedoc-Roussillon’s past is steeped in rich history. At the beginning of the 20th Century, a phylloxera epidemic, coupled with overproduction and widespread fraud, wrought havoc for winegrowers, who subsequently decided to revolt. Since the 1950s the wines of the Languedoc have become increasingly refined, and the best estates now produce wines of truly exceptional quality. Gérard Bertrand is determined to drive this progress even further, through continued innovation and by creating internationally-renowned appellations and wines.
About:
Limoux is the area where sparkling wine originated. In 1531, the monks of Saint Hilaire discovered the first wine with bubbles. Situated in the foothills of the Pyrenees, these vineyards benefit from the cool conditions required to make sparkling wines of quality. This exceptional quality had even founded an echo across the Atlantic: Thomas Jefferson was Limoux’ greatest admirer and he discretely cultivated his love for France and for Limoux sparkling wine. Actually, wine from Limoux was the only sparkling wine to be found in his personal cellar. The grapes are harvested early by hand, in order to retain a good level of acidity. Upon arrival at the winery, the fruit is immediately pressed in a pneumatic pressing machine. The must is transferred to the vats for alcoholic fermentation, using the same process used for still wines. The wine is then transferred to sealed bottles for fermentation, in accordance with the champagne method. To finish, we disgorge the bottles and perform the traditional dosage, which is very precise, in order to keep a real freshness and wine balance.
Varietals:
70% Chardonnay, 15% Chenin Blanc, 10% Mauzac, 5% Pinot Noir
Alcohol:
12.5%
Tasting Notes:
The Chenin and Chardonnay grapes bring texture and balance, with the Chardonnay also providing fine bubbles. The Chenin adds vivacity, and enhances the longevity. Cuvee Thomas Jefferson reveals a beautiful, golden yellow hue, a complex aromatic nose revealing hints of white flower and honey, green apple and toast. Crisp, elegant structure on the palate with a fine texture of the bubbles that complement the natural minerals and acidity.
Food Pairings:
Ideal as an aperitif but also pairs well with fresh seafood or shellfish. The perfect pairing: Glasses and the ones you Love!
Jim Lutfy’s Thoughts:
Rich mouth feel, clean and loaded with flavor and a clean finish. Best served with Salmon or any cured meats!