Discovering 13th Street Winery: 13th Street Cuvée 13 Sparkling Brut Rosé

13^th Street Winery, located on 4^th Avenue in St. Catharines, has long been a sacred place to me. Not only do they have an impressive portfolio of red, white and rosé wines – they have a sparkling wine program that is world class. Fittingly, Winemaker Jean-Pierre Colas makes the sparkling in the methode traditionnelle (traditional method).


Before we delve further, a note on the methode traditionnelle process: this sparkling production begins with a simple white wine. A combination of sugar, yeast and wine is added to the base wine before it is bottled.  Once bottled and sealed with a temporary cork, the wine undergoes a secondary fermentation, creating those beautiful bubbles. Through the riddling process, sediment in the bottle created during the secondary fermentation is collected. Once the temporary cork is removed, the pressure pushes the sediment out - and you have a clear bottle of bubbles!

Back to the wine at - or in - hand, this sparkling rosé is a classic blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. The wine has aged for 18 months, adding complexity in aroma and flavour. The bubbles are elegant and the acidity makes the wine lively and crisp. Pronounced red fruit flavours linger on the palate.

This wine, made in a classic style, is a gorgeous taste of Niagara sparkling. It is perfect for a special night - or make a night special by opening it! It's a steal at $24.95 available at 13^th Street winery and at the LCBO.
Until next week, happy sipping!