Pinot Meunier, which is pronounced PEE-no moon-YAY, is a black wine grape that is one of the three varieties primarily known for producing champagne. The other two are Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. When used to produce wines, the varietal red grapes will produce magenta and ruby colored reds that are somewhat translucent, but not so clear that you can see right through them. The lucid bright color will remind drinkers of younger Beaujolais or even some Pinot Noirs. Pinot Meunier tends to have bouquets of cherries and cranberry along with a strong smell of smoke. This is caused by the actual fruit, which tends to have a natural smoky flavor. Because Pinot Meunier is genetically linked to Pinot Noir, you may get similar aromas. Depending on the amount of oak used in production, you may get a hint of vanilla as well. Red fruits dominate the palate of Pinot Meunier, but this also depends on when and where the Pino Meunier was produced. The red fruits could veer into the riper and darker category, still red, but with a slight bitterness to them. Pinot Meunier features smooth berry flavors like raspberries or strawberries and cream.
Selected from 15 different vineyards located in the Marne Valley, in the Aube and the small Mountain of Reims. It is made of 35% Pinot Noir, 35% Pinot Meunier, 30% Chardonnay.
With a light amber color with fine bubbles, full-bodied with a full mixture of white fruits. Dominating taste of hazelnuts and grilled almonds. This crisp, delicate, fresh, creamy and elegant champagne, with just a touch of yeastiness, is sure to enhance any special occasion or meal. A very classic and delicate Brut.
Guide Michelin 2013, **
Review:
"Medium gold color with a rich, seductive nose of roasted grains. Shows an elegant attack and a very fine, rich mousse. Finishes very dry but long. Dried lemon peel and toasted bread are evident on the richly textured palate with notable mineral character. Finishes very dry and long."
International Wine Review (Dec 08), 92 pts
Siegel Special Reserve Chardonnay is made from 100 percent Chardonnay.
This Chardonnay has a pale yellow color. On the nose is is complex with citrus and tropical fruit aromas balanced with notes from the oak aging. On the palate it has good acidity with a long finish.
VINIFICATION: Alcoholic fermentation occurs at 16-17 degrees C. When the alcoholic finishes part of the wine is kept on a pump-over program.
FINNING AND FILTRATION: Once the wine has been blended it is clarified and then undergoes cold stablisation and is later filtered through clay.
AGING: Aged in French oak barrels for 6 months.
Pairs well with fish like Tilapia, salmon and white meats.
This Thorn Clarke Mt. Crawford Riesling is a fine example of Mount Crawford climate, soil and aspect combining to display a varietal bouquet of spicy floral characters. With fresh, crisp citrus notes and a long finish on the palate, this wine can be enjoyed with a vast array of foods. The winemaker recommends enjoying this with spicy tandoori chicken.