Embrace the joyous and aromatic spirit of Cricova Semi-Dry White Sparkling Wine, a truly captivating and distinctive offering from the heart of Moldova. This 750ml bottle, with a balanced 11.1% alcohol by volume, brings the vibrant charm of European sparkling winemaking to discerning individuals in New Zealand, offering a sophisticated and festive option for any occasion.
Cricova is not just a winery; it's an extraordinary underground city of wine, boasting one of the largest cellar networks in the world. Founded in 1952 in former limestone mines, its constant cool temperatures and high humidity provide ideal conditions for wine maturation, particularly for sparkling wines. Cricova is celebrated as the first winery in Moldova to produce sparkling wine using the traditional French Méthode Champenoise (secondary fermentation in the bottle), alongside the Charmat method (secondary fermentation in tanks), ensuring a range of high-quality sparkling wines. This semi-dry white sparkling is crafted from carefully selected European grape varieties, often including local grapes like Feteasca Alba, or international varieties like Chardonnay and Riesling, cultivated to express the unique terroir of Moldova.
On the nose, Cricova Semi-Dry White Sparkling Wine offers an inviting bouquet of crisp green apples, juicy pears, hints of white peach, and delicate floral notes, often with a subtle honeyed sweetness. The palate is wonderfully effervescent and semi-sweet, with a playful mousse and a harmonious balance of natural fruit sugars and refreshing acidity. Flavours of orchard fruits and a touch of citrus zest lead to a remarkably clean, crisp, and delightful finish that is both satisfying and invigorating. Its brilliant pale golden hue and persistent fine bubbles are visually enchanting.
Ideally served well-chilled at 6-8°C, Cricova Semi-Dry White Sparkling Wine is a remarkably versatile wine that defies seasonal limitations. It excels as a festive aperitif, a delightful companion to light desserts (especially fruit-based ones), or as a charming partner to brunch fare. Even during New Zealand's cooler winter months, its bright fruit, gentle sweetness, and invigorating bubbles offer a cheerful contrast to the season, making it perfect for celebrating intimate moments or adding sparkle to any gathering.
