Monfort Trentodoc Brut Cuvee 85

Region: Alto-Adige, Italy

Grape Varieties: 90% Chardonnay & 10% Pinot Noir

This time of year a good glass of bubbles really lifts the spirits after a hot day. A category we do not get to promote often is Trentodoc, which are sparkling wines made in the Alto-Adige region of Italy. Following the same process as Champagne with bottle fermentation and aging, these are an exciting alternative when you are looking for quality and refreshment.

We discovered the Monfort example in the fall and it was very popular until supplies ran low. It is now back and the new disgorgement is every bit as good and perfect for the summer. The name Cuvée 85 celebrates that the Simoni family have made this wine since 1985, with current bottlings being a blend of 90% Chardonnay and 10% Pinot Noir. It spends 24 months on the lees then is finished with a scant 5 grams to fill out the mouthfeel. The nose of this wine is a Champagne like mix of toasted bread crumbs, fresh green apple, celery hearts and lemon zest. It is precise to start then rounds out a touch mid-palate before drying into the finish. Serve this with salmon canapés, baked brie or all by itself!