In 1831, Bernard Bichot founded a wine trading business in his name in Monthélie, France. His son, Hippolyte, succeeded him and bought the first grape vines in Volnay, France. His son, Albert Bichot, the first to bear the name, gave the family business new momentum in the late 19th century and settled in the centre of Beaune (the center of Burgundy wine production ) once and for all in 1912. The Albert Bichot winery indeed has deep roots in France.

The notation on the label of these two sparkling wines of “Crémant de Bourgogne” indicates the appellation for sparkling white and rosé wines of Burgundy in France.

Sparkling wines labeled “Crémant de Bourgogne” must be produced from a minimum of 30% of any combination of Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and/or Pinot Noir with no more than 30% Gamay included in any wine, and made in the methode traditionelle.

Albert Bichot Brut Rosé ($31)

This Brut Rosé is produced from Pinot Noir (80%), Chardonnay and Gamay (less than 10%) that are vinified separately and aged for 9 months. It is then stored on lees for 12 months with a dosage of 10 gm/L.

This Brut Rosé is medium salmon in color with delicate aromas of red fruit and citrus. It is very delicate on the palate with light strawberry and candied-cherry flavors, balanced acidity and a light finish.

Albert Bichot Brut Réserve ($31)

This Brut Réserve is produced from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Gamay and Aligote. Each varietal is vinified separately and aged for 9 months. It is then stored on lees for at least 12 months with a dosage of 7-8 gm/L. This sparkling Brut is pale copper in color with aromas of peach and citrus. On the palate it has delicate fresh fruit flavors, balanced acidity and a light finish.

These two Brut sparkling wines from Albert Bichot are perfect for celebrating the holidays, or any time! They are a great fit as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Media Samples Provided by Albert Bichot Winery via IT Public Relations