Scharffenberger Brut Excellence

Scharffenberger Brut Excellence is a traditional methode champenoise sparkling wine from Anderson Valley, California — approximately two-thirds Pinot Noir and one-third Chardonnay, bottle-fermented, riddled, and disgorged like Champagne, then aged about two years on the yeast lees. A 100% malolactic fermentation gives it a round, creamy, full-bodied style that consistently over-delivers at its price. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.

• ABV: ~12%
• Size: 750mL
• Blend: approx. two-thirds Pinot Noir, one-third Chardonnay
• Origin: Anderson Valley, Mendocino County, California — estate vineyards plus long-term Mendocino contracts
• Production: methode champenoise; 100% malolactic fermentation; ~2 years on lees

Anderson Valley Bubbles, Champagne Method

Founded in 1981 and now under the stewardship of Champagne Louis Roederer's U.S. arm, Scharffenberger makes its Brut from 120 acres of its own Anderson Valley vineyards plus select Mendocino County fruit. The Pinot Noir-heavy blend brings a red-fruit-forward nose of cherry and plum while Chardonnay adds tropical litchi and mango; full malolactic fermentation wraps it all in vanilla cream. Rated 91 by Wine Enthusiast and James Suckling and 90 by Wine Spectator, it is a go-to Champagne-style sparkler for the money.

Tasting Notes

The winemaker notes describe cherry and plum on the nose from the Pinot Noir, tropical litchi and mango from the Chardonnay, and vanilla cream from the malolactic fermentation. Two years on the lees add freshly baked bread and pastry, and time on the cork develops caramel and hazelnut. Critics note a lively, tensioned palate with apple, strawberry, and fine tannins.

How to Enjoy

Chill to 40–45°F and serve in a flute or white-wine glass. It shines as an aperitif and alongside oysters, smoked salmon, soft-ripened cheeses, or roast chicken — and it is an easy crowd-pleaser for weddings and holiday toasts. Compare it with other California sparkling wines and browse more Scharffenberger.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is methode champenoise?
The traditional Champagne method: the wine undergoes its second fermentation in the bottle, is riddled to collect the yeast sediment, then disgorged — producing fine, persistent bubbles.

How does Scharffenberger compare to Roederer Estate Brut?
Both are Anderson Valley methode champenoise wines under the same ownership. Scharffenberger runs richer and creamier thanks to full malolactic fermentation and reserve-wine blending, while Roederer Estate is more structured and mineral-driven.

Is it vintage-dated?
No — Brut Excellence is a non-vintage multi-vintage cuvee, blended for consistency year to year.

For Champagne-method quality without the Champagne price tag, order Scharffenberger Brut Excellence online from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.