Markgraf von Baden - Chardonnay Sekt Extra brut 'traditional bottle fermentation' 11% alc by vol. 'release 2021' NV

Markgraf von Baden - Chardonnay Sekt Extra Brut (Traditional bottle fermentation)

1. Overview & Origin

This sparkling wine is producedby the Markgraf von Baden winery, one of the most renowned and historically significant wineries in Germany, with roots dating back to 1112. The estate cultivates around 135 hectares of vineyards at two locations: Salem Castle on Lake Constance and Staufenberg Castle in Ortenau. It is one of only around 200 wineries in Germany that is a member of the Association of German Prädikat Wine Estates (VDP ), a symbol of the highest quality standards.

The product on offer is a Chardonnay sparkling wine in the Extra Brutflavour , which defines the very low residual sugar content of less than 6 grams per litre.

2. Production process

The sparkling wine is produced using the elaborate process of traditional bottle fermentation. In concrete terms, this means

• Base wine and fermentation: The base wine made from Chardonnay grapes is fermented in traditional wooden barrels, which lends complexity to the subsequent sparkling wine.

• Second fermentation in the bottle: The second alcoholic fermentation takes place in the bottle, creating the natural carbon dioxide bubbles (mousseux).

• Lees ageing (sur lie): The sparkling wine then matures for an exceptionally long period of 26 months on the fine lees. This long maturation is typical of high-quality sparkling wines and gives the wine its characteristic bready and yeasty notes.

3. Sensory description (flavour & aroma)

The sparkling wine has a complex and elegant profile, characterised by the long ageing on the lees and the Chardonnay grape variety.

• Appearance: The bouquet is described as wonderfully dense and golden yellow in colour.

• Nose (flavour): The aroma spectrum is varied and rich. Notes of apple pie (apple strudel), apricots, peach, nectarine, almonds, ripe yellow fruit and vanilla are mentioned. There are also typical mature notes of yeast, a hint of hay and hazelnut. Another source describes the nose as delicately spicy with grapey notes.

• Palate: On the palate, the sparkling wine is straightforward, juicy, with a dynamic, fine mousseux (perlage) and a lively, ripe acidity. The finish is described as pointed, juicy and refreshing, ideal as an aperitif.

4. Reviews & awards

The sparkling wine is consistently rated positively by experts and wine critics:

• Falstaff (WeinGuide Deutschland 2022): Received 90 Falstaff points from critic Ulrich Sautter.

• Further ratings: Other sparkling wines from Markgraf von Baden have also received similarly high ratings, e.g. 90 points for the Riesling Sekt Extra Brut and 91 points for the Chardonnay "Reserve".

5. Technical details & serving suggestions

General product data:

Serving and storage tips:

• Optimal drinking temperature: The ideal drinking temperature for this type of sparkling wine is between 7°C and 11°C. It is particularly refreshing at around 7°C.

• Storage: The sparkling wine should be storedin a cool (constant 10-17°C), dry place and protected from light. For longer storage, it is advisable to keep the bottle lying down to keep the cork moist.

6. Available vintages

It is important to note that the "Markgraf von Baden - Chardonnay Sekt Extra Brut" is usually a non-vintage sparkling wine. The specified bottle (NV Chardonnay extra brut) is a cuvée of different vintages. If you are looking for a vintage sparkling wine, the winery also offers Chardonnay as a still wine in different vintages, e.g:

• 2023 "Reserve" Baden Chardonnay (rated with 91 Falstaff points)

• 2020 Durbach Chardonnay dry (rated with 91 Falstaff points)

• 2017 Durbach Schloss Staufenberg Chardonnay Erste Lage dry (rated with 91 Falstaff points)

7. Prices & sources of supply

The price can vary depending on the retailer and region. Here are some guidelines:

• Online (Germany): The price is quoted at around €19.50 incl. VAT, plus shipping costs.

• International (Hong Kong): At the time of its launch in Hong Kong, the sparkling wine was offered for the equivalent of around HK$288 (around €33 at the time).

Sources of supply:
The sparkling wine can be purchased in various ways:

• Directly from the producer: Via the official Markgraf von Baden shop.

• International: Partly also available in selected speciality shops in Hong Kong.

8. Conclusion

The Markgraf von Baden Chardonnay Sekt Extra Brutis a high-quality, traditionally bottle-fermented sparkling wine from the renowned VDP winery Markgraf von Baden. With its 26-month yeast ageing, complex aromas of ripe fruit, yeast and nuts and its lively but ripe acidity, it offers an elegant taste experience. The 90-point rating from Falstaff emphasises its high quality. With an entry-level price of around 19.50 euros, it is an excellent example of a first-class German quality sparkling wine.