Carassia Blanc de Blancs: Premium Sparkling Wine

Carassia Blanc de Blancs emerges as a pinnacle of Romanian sparkling wines. It is meticulously crafted within the heart of Transylvania, highlighting the excellence of Chardonnay grapes. The Carastelec Winery, situated in Romania’s picturesque northwest, is the birthplace of this masterpiece. It employs the traditional method to bring forth this gem.

This sparkling wine boasts a 12% alcohol content and undergoes a minimum 24-month aging process. The outcome is a refined taste that has garnered numerous accolades. It has been awarded Silver and Gold medals at the Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championship.

Wine aficionados, take heed: the 2017 Vintage Magnum edition was crowned the Best Blanc de Blancs for 2023. This achievement underscores the winery’s dedication to quality and tradition. Rooted in the Crisana wine region, this sparkling wine encapsulates the essence of Transylvanian terroir.

Key Takeaways

• Made from 100% Chardonnay grapes in Transylvania
• Produced using the traditional method with 24-month aging
• Award-winning, including Best Blanc de Blancs 2023
• 12% alcohol content with 21% reserve wine
• Originating from the Crisana wine region in northwest Transylvania
• Limited availability, showcasing its premium status

Introduction to Carassia Blanc de Blancs

Carassia Blanc de Blancs emerges as a beacon of excellence in Romanian wine. This sparkling gem, born in Transylvania, has propelled Romania onto the global wine scene. The Carastelec Winery, situated at the heart of this storied region, has rekindled a dormant winemaking artistry with remarkable success.

Award-Winning Romanian Sparkling Wine

The Carassia 2017 Blanc de Blancs Magnum has been crowned World Champion Classic Blanc de Blancs Brut 2023. This accolade underscores the increasing global acclaim for Romanian wines. The Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships, marking its 10th year, witnessed intense rivalry from celebrated wine-producing areas.

The Legacy of Carastelec Winery

Established in 2011, Carastelec Winery ushered in a new chapter for sparkling wine in Romania. It stands as the pioneering winery of its kind, exclusively dedicated to crafting premium sparkling wines. This commitment has revitalized Transylvania’s ancient winemaking heritage.

Traditional Method Excellence

Carassia Blanc de Blancs employs the traditional method, akin to Champagne production. This meticulous process, involving a second fermentation in the bottle, generates the wine’s distinctive bubbles and intricate flavors. The winery’s unwavering adherence to this method exemplifies their dedication to quality and tradition in sparkling wine craftsmanship.

The Heritage of Carastelec Winery

Carastelec Winery is a symbol of innovation in Romanian viticulture. Established in 2011, it led the charge in creating sparkling wines through traditional methods. Its origins are deeply rooted in Carastelec village, within the historic Șimleul Silvaniei Vineyard of Sălaj County.

A Modern Twist on Ancient Traditions

In the heart of Crișana, Carastelec Winery merges ancient winemaking practices with advanced technology. Spanning 22.4 hectares, the plantation features a cutting-edge facility constructed between 2011 and 2013. This facility oversees every phase of sparkling wine production, from the initial pressing to the final labeling.

Honoring Historical Roots

The winery’s location is of great historical importance. Its slopes align with the Josephinian map of 1770, highlighting the region’s long-standing viticultural heritage. This connection underscores Carastelec’s commitment to preserving and enhancing local winemaking traditions.

Commitment to Excellence

Carastelec’s focus on quality is evident in its detailed processes. Grapes are hand-harvested in late August or early September, contingent on weather and technological readiness. The winery ages its sparkling wines for nearly triple the time mandated by AOC regulations, guaranteeing exceptional quality in every bottle.

Terroir and Vineyard Characteristics

Carastelec Winery’s vineyard covers 22.4 hectares in North West Transylvania. Its location is uniquely advantageous for cool climate viticulture. This makes it ideal for crafting high-quality sparkling wines.

Cool Climate Advantages

The Carstelec area’s cool climate is perfect for slow ripening grapes. This climate results in fruit with mature flavors and high acidity. These traits are essential for exceptional sparkling wines. The temperature differences between day and night contribute to balanced grape development.

Soil Composition

The vineyard’s slopes are located as shown on the Josephinian map from 1770. This indicates a rich viticultural heritage. The soil composition is crucial in imparting unique characteristics to the grapes grown here.

Vineyard Management

Carastelec Winery employs meticulous vineyard management practices. The planting density is 6250 vines per hectare, optimizing grape quality and yield. Manual harvest typically begins in late August or early September. This ensures careful selection of the finest grapes.

These factors combined – cool climate, strategic location, and careful vineyard management – create the perfect conditions. They enable Carassia to produce award-winning sparkling wines.

Production Process and Technology

Carastelec Winery employs advanced technology in its sparkling wine production. It follows the traditional method meticulously, ensuring quality from grape pressing to labeling. This approach guarantees excellence at every step.

The core of Carassia Blanc de Blancs is its second fermentation, happening within the bottle. This step is vital for the wine’s complex flavors and lasting bubbles. The winery is proud of its extended bottle aging, exceeding AOC standards by nearly threefold.

This prolonged aging enhances the wine’s flavors and achieves a perfect balance. The disgorgement process, executed with precision, completes the premium sparkling wine’s creation.

The winery’s commitment to the traditional method, combined with modern technology, produces a sparkling wine. It showcases Transylvanian terroir and winemaking expertise at its finest.

Carassia Blanc de Blancs: Premium Characteristics

Carassia Blanc de Blancs emerges as a pinnacle of sparkling wines, crafted with unparalleled dedication. It exemplifies the zenith of Romanian viticulture and winemaking prowess.

100% Chardonnay Composition

Composed entirely of Chardonnay grapes, Carassia Blanc de Blancs embodies the quintessence of this varietal. This singular focus enables the wine to convey the refined essence of Chardonnay, manifesting as a crisp, elegant sparkling wine with a distinct personality.

Aging Process

The aging process, spanning 20 months, is pivotal in shaping the wine’s intricate flavor profile. This prolonged period contributes to the development of autolysis flavors, a quintessential trait of traditional method sparkling wines. The inaugural edition, unveiled in May 2017, is the culmination of three years of meticulous labor, from grape selection to bottling.

Tasting Profile

The tasting experience of Carassia Blanc de Blancs is both rich and complex. The prolonged aging imbues the wine with fine, enduring bubbles that caress the palate. Connoisseurs will revel in the array of flavors, from the crispness of apple and citrus to the subtlety of brioche and toasted almonds. The wine’s harmonious balance of acidity and creamy texture ensures a memorable and satisfying tasting experience.

Awards and Recognition

Carassia Blanc de Blancs has earned significant international acclaim, establishing itself as a top-tier sparkling wine. Its outstanding quality has been celebrated through numerous awards at esteemed competitions.

World Champion Classic Blanc de Blancs 2023

In a groundbreaking achievement, Carassia 2017 Blanc de Blancs Magnum was crowned the World Champion Classic Blanc de Blancs Brut 2023 at the 10th annual Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships (CSWWC). This victory is a historic milestone for Romanian sparkling wines, showcasing their prowess against renowned producers from traditional regions.

International Accolades

Carassia’s success story began with its first gold medal at the CSWWC in 2018, marking it as the first Romanian sparkling wine to achieve this honor. The winery’s consistent excellence led to Carastelec being awarded the World Champion “Rising Star” title, underscoring the region’s potential in sparkling wine production.

Esteemed judges such as Tom Stevenson, Essi Avellan MW, and Dr. Tony Jordan have acknowledged Carassia’s quality. The brand’s winemaker, Csaba Bereczki, received the Rising Star World Champion trophy at the CSWWC ceremony, further solidifying Carassia’s reputation in the international sparkling wine scene.

The Complete Carassia Collection

The Carassia sparkling wine range is a testament to Carastelec Winery’s dedication to excellence. Introduced in 2017, it has swiftly earned acclaim in both Romanian and Hungarian markets.

At the core of the collection is the Carassia Blanc de Blancs, a sparkling wine that has garnered numerous accolades. It is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes, aged for a minimum of 20 months on lees. With a dosage of 9 g/l, it embodies a harmonious blend of crispness and depth.

The Carassia Classic Extra Brut caters to those who appreciate a drier, more refined taste. Its low dosage accentuates the fruit’s natural flavors and the terroir’s distinctiveness.

The Carassia Rose Brut, a delicate and refreshing addition, brings a touch of sophistication to any event.

With free delivery on orders exceeding 20,000 HUF, the Carassia sparkling wine range is now more accessible than ever. Each bottle encapsulates the winery’s unwavering commitment to quality and tradition in sparkling wine production.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Carassia Blanc de Blancs stands out as a versatile sparkling wine, ideal for diverse food pairings and occasions. This Romanian gem provides a delightful experience when served at the optimal temperature and paired with complementary dishes.

Optimal Serving Temperature

To fully appreciate Carassia Blanc de Blancs, serve it chilled between 45-50°F (7-10°C). This temperature range enhances its crisp acidity and delicate bubbles, offering a refreshing and invigorating experience.

Food Combinations

This sparkling wine pairs beautifully with a range of cuisines. Try it with:

• Brie cheese for a creamy contrast
• Fresh seafood like oysters or grilled fish
• Light appetizers such as bruschetta or canapés
• Poultry dishes, specially roasted chicken

Occasion Recommendations

Carassia Blanc de Blancs is suitable for numerous sparkling wine occasions. Enjoy it during:

• Celebratory toasts at weddings or anniversaries
• Elegant dinner parties as an aperitif
• Relaxed brunches with friends
• New Year’s Eve festivities

At €25.50, this award-winning sparkling wine offers exceptional value for its quality. It’s an excellent choice for both special events and casual gatherings.

Export and Availability

Carassia Blanc de Blancs has made significant strides in international markets. This premium sparkling wine is now available in specialized stores across Romania and Hungary. The brand’s growing recognition suggests a bright future in wider export markets.

In Hungary, where wine consumption trends are shifting, Carassia is well-positioned. Hungarian wine drinkers show a preference for white wines, with 62.4% favoring this variety. This aligns perfectly with Carassia’s Blanc de Blancs offering.

The Horeca sector in both countries has embraced Carassia, recognizing its quality and appeal to discerning customers. This sector’s support is crucial for premium wines like Carassia Blanc de Blancs, as it introduces the brand to a wider audience of wine enthusiasts.

For those interested in importing this award-winning sparkling wine, personalized quotes are available through champagne-export.com. This platform connects international buyers with premium sparkling wines, facilitating Carassia’s expansion into new markets.

Conclusion

Carassia Blanc de Blancs epitomizes Romanian wine excellence, showcasing the pinnacle of quality in sparkling wines. Its victory as World Champion at the CSWWC 2023 solidifies Carastelec Winery’s position in the global wine community. This achievement is a testament to the winery’s dedication to excellence.

The success of Carassia in international competitions underscores Romania’s growing influence in the world of wine. Carastelec’s blend of traditional methods and innovative techniques has created a sparkling wine that competes with the best. This milestone not only boosts Romanian viticulture but also broadens the global wine landscape.

Carassia Blanc de Blancs serves as a beacon for wine enthusiasts eager to explore new horizons. Its journey is a narrative of passion, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of winemaking excellence. Each bottle of Carassia invites us to celebrate the future of Romanian sparkling wines.