The NV Cruse Wine Co. Tradition Rosé Sparkling Wine from California is a well-regarded offering from winemaker Michael Cruse. This sparkling rosé, primarily composed of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay, also includes 10% still red wine, which adds a distinctive savoriness to its profile. The wine has a medium cherry-pink color and an alcohol content of 12.5%. It is sealed with a traditional cork closure.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded this wine an impressive score of 94. Reviewer EB noted that it possesses "a savory aromatic profile, with notes of matchstick, potpourri, and pie crust." The palate is described as "light-bodied and dry, with just two grams per liter of residual sugar." EB further highlighted its "creamy yet energetic feel, a balance of berry and savory character, focused acidity, and a satisfying finish that gains in intensity."
Decanter also gave the wine a high score of 92. Their review detailed the meticulous process behind this rosé, which includes pre-blending in early spring, followed by two years on the lees before being riddled and disgorged with a dosage of around 2 grams per liter. The reviewer noted the wine's "plenty of body and richness from the dosage, with savory cherry pit and ripe cherry fruit aromas." Additionally, they praised its "voluminous and creamy mousse, with plenty of grip and bite" and remarked that the richness is balanced by "bracing acid tension."
Vinous provided a score of 91, with Antonio Galloni describing it as "a pretty, gracious, and ethereal sparkling wine." He elaborated on the flavor profile, mentioning "crushed red berry fruit, mint, white pepper, and crushed rocks." Galloni also noted the unique quality imparted by the still red wine component, which is vinified with whole clusters, adding "a distinctive savory quality that is not often found in sparkling wines."
Overall, the NV Cruse Wine Co. Tradition Rosé Sparkling Wine is a sophisticated and well-balanced wine, lauded for its complexity and elegant structure. The wine's excellent reviews from top publications underscore its quality and appeal.