NV Artemivske “Victory” White Brut Sparkling, Ukraine (Alcohol 13%, Residual Sugar 11 g/l) LCBO Vintages $18.95 (750ml glass bottle)
Having previously published a three-part 101 on Ukranian wines with Victoria Agromakova, I had some understanding of the hardships Vignerons are facing across the entire country while their war with Russia continues. With this in mind, I was delighted to receive a sample bottle of a Ukranian sparkling wine that is new to the LCBO from the Artemivske winery, the country’s number one producer of bubbles.
Produced using the Charmat/tank method, this blend of Aligoté, Riesling, and Chardonnay is quite different from your average sparkler when it comes to bouquet, flavour profile, and texture, with the three grapes each bringing something special to the party.
On the nose, one will find peach, pear, green apple, white flowers, brioche, and lemon zest, while on the palate there is pleasantly firm carbonation that’s more persistent than one may at first imagine. The 11g of residual sugar adds a little body but very little sweetness, as this wine certainly drinks dry. I feel that the Aligoté brings quite a lot to the textural mid-palate, and it is this that draws me to this bottling more than anything. The surprisingly long finish bows out with more of the aforementioned peach and pear with a subtle touch of lychee.
An absolutely terrific little alternative to other more well-known sparkling wines this festive season.
(Four out of a possible five apples)
Artemivske are represented in Ontario by Dionysus Wines and Spirits.
Dionysus Wines and Spirits are a Good Food Fighter.
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