Chateau Frank Brut 2002



COMPOSITION:

The Chateau Frank Brut 2002 is a blend of the three classic Champagne varieties; Chardonnay, Pinot noir, and Pinot Meunier. We believe Chateau Frank is the only winery in Eastern United States to grow all the traditional Champagne grape varieties.

VINIFICATION:

This cuvee is made following the traditional Champagne methods. All hand-picked grapes originate from Chateau Frank’s vineyards and are pressed whole cluster in membrane press while making a severe selection of the press fraction in the traditional Champagne style.  The base wines are fermented at low temperatures, before the blending takes place the following spring.  After estate tirage the bottles were aged “sur lies” in underground cellar, for more than three years, before being riddled by hand or gyropalette.

DESCRIPTION:

This wine presents the classic characteristics of a French Champagne with its toasty yeast character, persistent foam and tiny bubbles.  A great balance is achieved between the fruity contributions of the Pinot Noir and the acidic backbone of the Chardonnay resulting in a long clean finish.  This wine shows great complexity with layers of fruit, floral notes, fresh dough, mineral characters, and an enduring creamy finish.

ANALYSIS:

Alcohol:   12.0%
Acidity:    .76g/100ml
pH:          3.00
Sugar:     1.1%



Return to Winemaker's Facts