Crémant has gained attention in recent years, due to the growing popularity of Crémant wines as an affordable alternative to Champagne. Produced by Maison Antech, this Crémant is a 70/30 blend of Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc with an alcohol content of 12% ABV.
The production process follows the traditional method, the same method used to make Champagne. Grapes are handpicked and whole bunch pressed before undergoing secondary fermentation in the bottle, which creates the signature bubbles. Crémant de Limoux is aged on the lees for a minimum of nine months. Maison Antech goes beyond this requirement, extending the lees ageing to enhance the taste.
Visually, it has a golden hue similar to Champagne, with fine, lively bubbles. There are aromas of ripe apple, white flowers and biscuit. The taste is actually similar to apple tart, evoking the taste of cooking apples wrapped in butter pastry. As it warms in the glass, the flavours become more pronounced and more layered, with a more creamy, oily texture.
Adnams Crémant de Limoux occupies the stylistic space between Prosecco or Cava, and Champagne, both in taste and price. At £14.99 available directly from Adnams.
