Schramsberg Vineyards is a Napa Valley icon, known for producing some of the finest sparkling wines in the world. Founded in 1862 by Jacob Schram, the winery has a rich history and has been a leader in the sparkling wine industry for over 150 years.
The History of Schramsberg Vineyards
Schramsberg Vineyards was founded by Jacob Schram in 1862, making it one of the oldest wineries in Napa Valley. Schram, a German immigrant, purchased a property in the Diamond Mountain District and began planting vines. He quickly realized that the cool climate and rocky soils of the area were perfect for growing sparkling wine grapes.
In 1965, Jack and Jamie Davies purchased the winery and embarked on a mission to restore the vineyards and winery to its former glory. They were the first American winery to produce a Brut sparkling wine using the traditional méthode champenoise. The wine was an instant success, and the winery has continued to produce award-winning sparkling wines to this day.
The Winemaking Process at Schramsberg Vineyards
The winemaking process at Schramsberg Vineyards is a combination of traditional and modern techniques. The grapes are hand-picked and sorted before being gently pressed. The juice is then fermented in stainless steel tanks before being bottled and aged for a minimum of two years. The wines are then disgorged and corked, completing the méthode champenoise process.
The winery also uses sustainable and organic practices in the vineyard, such as cover cropping, composting, and minimal use of pesticides. These practices not only benefit the environment but also result in grapes with more intense flavors and aromas.
The Wines of Schramsberg Vineyards
Schramsberg Vineyards is best known for its sparkling wines, but it also produces a small amount of still wines. The winery's flagship wine is the Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs, a 100% Chardonnay sparkling wine that is aged for a minimum of four years.
Other sparkling wines produced by the winery include the Schramsberg Brut Rosé, made from a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, and the Schramsberg J. Schram, a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier grapes aged for a minimum of ten years.
