bubble party

sophie schaal is a passionate and dedicated winemaker with deep roots in the world of wine. her journey began in burgundy, where she laid the foundation for her career in dijon and earned her national diploma as an oenologist, but a turning point in her life and career was a trip to south africa and an important meeting with alsatian winemaker, and now husband, julien schaal in 2013. they live an interesting life jet setting between vineyards in alsace and south africa, allowing them to combine the best of both wine worlds. in alsace, their small, yet modern cellar is located at the family home in the charming village of hunawihr. alsace has a unique combination of different soil types - pink sandstone, blue slate, limestone, granite, and volcanic rock are among the most interesting soil types of this region. under her own label sophie makes amazing alsatian riesling, pinot gris, and pinot noir focused on organic practices, simple winemaking letting the grape shine. her champagne method bubbles are made from 100% pinot blanc and the wine ages on its lees (sur lie) for at least 24 months with just a small dosage of 3 grams per liter added after disgorgement, resulting in an extra brut style. the wine is dry and vibrant with flavors of citrus, pear, and toasted notes and the lively acidity leads to a clean, mineral finish.

cristina guillén and josep maria pujol-busquets started their passion project in 1991 and are now joined by second generation daughters, mireia & georgina. their terraced vineyards lie within the serralada de marina natural park, just over a mile from the mediterranean coast and a short 20-minute drive from barcelona. the family has farmed organically since 1991, an effort made easier by the park’s rich ecosystem, with protected species of birds and bees that aid in pollination and help ward off disease-causing pests. they seek to produce ‘transparent’ wines that reflect soil and vintage characteristics. this vintage champagne-method sparkler is a blend of 3 local grapes xarel-lo, parellada, macabeu and showcases bright green apple and citrus fruit, chalky minerality, and savory brioche undertones.

catarina vieria’s love for nature was instilled in her from a young age - her grandfather on her mother’s side was a wine producer and merchant, and her grandfather on her father’s side was in agriculture and also owned several vineyards in alentejo. her father ‘s company movicortes group, purchased the estate in 2000, and after the viera family took over the winery, they made a conscious decision to not only invest in the land and produce higher quality wine, but to also invest and make sustainable contributions to the development of the region. inspired by her love and respect for her grandparents, her father and her family, her connection with nature, and a true and unwavering passion for wine, catarina strives to create wines that are elegant, complex and strong. this champagne method sparkling wine made 100% arinto is clean and crisp with orchard fruits and yeasty flavors and a beautiful effervescence.