Leveret Estate IQ Brut Methode NV

For an exceptional price of only $19.99, this Methode Traditionelle sparkling wine from Hawke's Bay offers remarkable quality. Recognized with a Gold Medal and the Trophy for Champion Sparkling at the 2022 Hawke’s Bay Wine Awards, it has also earned a 92/100 rating and 4 stars from Master of Wine Bob Campbell.

A blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier, this wine spent 18 months on the lees, resulting in a refined mid-straw hue and a lasting, fine mousse. On the nose, it smells like fresh stone fruits and ripe strawberry, with inviting notes of biscuit, shortcake, and toasted cashew that add richness.

On the palate, it tastes like juicy peach, nectarine, and bright citrus notes of mandarin and orange blossom, with an undercurrent of creamy vanilla and strawberry. The texture is soft and mouth-filling, with a lovely, balanced freshness.

Hand-harvested grapes from the stony Riverview vineyard are whole-bunch pressed, with only the free run and light press juice selected. Most juice is fermented in stainless steel, while a small fraction is barrel-fermented in oak, adding subtle complexity.

The base wine undergoes malolactic fermentation with lees stirring every three weeks over 12 months for added depth. Carefully blended with reserve wine from prior vintages, this sparkling is then tirage bottled and aged for a minimum of 18 months, achieving a refined balance and consistent quality.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%