2015 J. Schram Blancs Magnum (1 x 1.5 L)
Originally released as our J. Schram, with the 2013 vintage this bottling was renamed J. Schram Blancs to denote this wines Chardonnay-based core. From the inception of Schramsbergs efforts in 1965, the winery has sought to achieve the greatest elegance and individuality possible in our sparkling wines. J. Schram Blancs epitomizes Schramsbergs philosophy to create a wine in which no effort has been spared and no care has been omitted. Representing only 2-3% of the winerys annual production, the Chardonnay-focused J. Schram Blancs blend is assembled from the very best base wine lots of the approximately 300 produced each year. This special bottling is dedicated to Schramsbergs founder, Jacob Schram, and has been a great success since its premier 1987 vintage was released in 1992.
Cluster samples from over 115 cool-climate vineyard sources are pulled several times before the optimal pick date for each block is selected. Complexity within the wine is gained through both oak barrel and stainless-steel tank fermentation. Additional layers are provided through small lots that undergo malolactic fermentation in barrel, enriching aromas and infusing creaminess on the palate. Our J. Schram Blancs is aged for eight years on the yeast in Schramsbergs historic Diamond Mountain caves; each bottle is then riddled by hand and finished with an exceptional brut dosage.
J. Schram Blancs is quite appealing on its own as an apéritif or enjoyed with fresh shellfish, caviar on toast point, smoked salmon, sharp cheeses, seafood brochettes, cedar-planked lobster, mesquite-grilled quail, or Serrano ham and porcini risotto.
2015 delivered California vintners a stellar vintage. A mild winter led to an early bud break, followed by a protracted bloom during an unseasonably cooler spring, which contributed to smaller grape clusters and variable crop size. A steady and moderate weather pattern during ripening allowed for gradual maturity within the grapes and exceptional quality upon harvest.
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Tasting notes
This 2015 J. Schram Blancs has generous aromas of golden apple, poached pear, and toasted almond, with layers of pineapple upside-down cake, lemon cookie, and vanilla custard. The palate presents flavors of Meyer lemon, Asian pear, candied orange peel, and juicy yuzu anchored with a bright center that finishes with long-lasting acidity.- Winemakers Jessica Koga, Sean Thompson and Hugh Davies
Reviews
98 PointsThis wine is rich and robust, with aromas of baked Golden Delicious apple, Asian pear, peach, marzipan, and notes of marigold honey on the nose. The flavors on the palate are yellow apple, kumquat, Satsuma orange, and fine creamy mousse in the mid-palate, with Apricot honey, toasty marcona almond, and a long, supple, silky finish. Pair with Fresh Lobster Roll, the Ultimate Seafood Tower.- Wine Enthusiast, Advance Buying Guide, Best of Year 2024
94 Points
Luxurious and dynamic with polished, full-bodied baked apple, Asian pear, brioche and roasted hazelnut flavors that build richness on a plush finish.- Wine Spectator, August 2024
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