Founded in 1958, Mittnacht owns vineyard area in the Grand Cru Rosacker and sites in Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr. The estate was certified biodynamic in 1999. This sparkling cuvée is based on Auxerrois (60 percent) with 10 percent each of Pinot blanc, Pinot gris, Pinot noir, and Riesling. It ages en tirage for 18 months prior to disgorgement, and the dosage is modest.
The body is pale moony yellow with a relaxed bead. The aromas have a wild edge — wild thyme, wildflowers, field herbs; quite dimensional. There’s also a sense of wet stone, lemon peel, almond, and bay leaf. The palate crackles with acidity and more crunchy minerals and herbs, and the finish is saline. A solid aperitif wine.
NV Mittnacht Frères Extra Brut Crémant d’Alsace
12% ABV | $23 (sample); imported by Skurnik
