Champagne is widely acknowledged to be the finest sparkling wine in the world. Using the labor intensive Méthode Champenoise process in which the second fermentation occurs in the same bottle that is eventually sold to the consumer, it produces an extremely fine wine. A Champagne Rosé is produced using the Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier grapes, with a short amount of skin contact to get its characteristic color.

Thornton Winery produces our Brut Rosé using that same Méthode Champenoise process. In fact, we are the first and original winery in Temecula to produce sparkling wine in this manner, going back to 1988. We typically use Pinot Noir and/or Syrah grapes, but it varies from year to year. Rosé sparkling wines typically have a bit more character and depth from using red grapes, and this wine is no exception. Serve with the typical foods normally served with a fine traditional style sparkling wine, but don’t fear serving with foods of fuller flavors.

Aroma: As to be expected from red grapes, light raspberry and strawberry lead the way followed by Rainier Cherry and red apple.
Palate: A variety of reds fruits as described above with nice depth and richness. Firm acidity leads to a lengthy finish of light red fruits.
Pairing: Pair with anything normally served with traditional sparkling wines. The extra depth of this wine makes it a great pairing with many meats including pork and even lighter beef dishes; salmon is a perfect match!