"From the inception of Schramsberg’s efforts in 1965, the winery has sought to achieve the greatest elegance and individuality possible in its sparkling wines. J. Schram epitomizes Schramsberg’s philosophy to create a wine in which no effort has been spared and no care has been omitted. Representing only three percent of the winery’s annual production, the Chardonnay-focused J. Schram blend is assembled from the top 10 to 15 lots of the approximately 200 produced each year. This special bottling is dedicated to Schramsberg’s founder of 1862, Jacob Schram, and has been a great success since its premier 1987 vintage was released in 1992.

More than 80 vineyard blocks in Carneros, Anderson Valley and along the Sonoma and Marin coasts are carefully nurtured throughout the growing season. Cluster samples are pulled several times before the optimal pick date for each block is selected. Complexity is gained through fermentation in both oak barrels and stainless steel tanks. Some of the small lots undergo malolactic fermentation to enrich aromas and infuse creaminess on the palate. The wine is then aged en tirage in Schramsberg’s historic Diamond Mountain caves for more than five years, riddled by hand, and finished with an exceptional brut dosage." - Winery Notes

Schramsberg "J. Schram" Sparkling 2004 Reviews

“Don’t even think about opening this brut for at least six years and probably far longer. Made from 85% Chardonnay and 15% Pinot Noir, it’s rich and full-bodied, with elaborately ripe flavors of tangerines, raspberries, roasted almonds and coconut, brioche, honey and vanilla. Good as it is, it simply needs time for everything to transmute into magic." - 96, Wine Enthusiast

"Rich and well-structured, exhibiting bold aromas of tart apple and cinnamon rolls, with layered flavors of baked Asian pear, ginger and toasty spice that linger toward the crisp finish." - 93, Wine Spectator

Schramsberg "J. Schram" Sparkling 2004 Tasting Notes

The 2004 J. Schram has aromas of fresh green apple, apricot and lime and a bit of minerality. In addition there is a creaminess of vanilla custard, and marzipan followed by fresh baguette. Flavors of orange, melon and lemon are present with some lime pith. The fruit is accentuated by warm spices, cinnamon and nutmeg. The texture is rich and tangy with an acidity that is long and balanced.

Schramsberg "J. Schram" Sparkling 2004 Pairings

J. Schram is quite appealing on its own as an apéritif or enjoyed with fresh shellfish, caviar, smoked salmon, tangy cheeses, seafood brochettes or risotto with prosciutto.