This 100% Chardonnay Blanc de Blancs is another example of the surprising complexity and finesse available from Gilbert Gruet & family in New Mexico. Abundantly bubbly, with notes of apple, lemon and toast, this is an incredible American value!

Gilbert Gruet, founder of Gruet Winery, was born in Bethon, France in 1931. He grew up in a poor family and began working at a young age. In 1952, Gilbert Gruet, along with his wife Danielle, dreamt of producing fine quality Champagne. Gilbert followed his heart and in 1967 created the U.V.C.B. (Union Vinicole des Coteaux de Bethon), a co-op in the village of Bethon.

In 1983, the Gruet family was traveling through the Southwestern part of the United States, and while in New Mexico met a group of European winemakers who had successfully planted vineyards In Engle, near the town of Truth or Consequence, 170 miles south of Albuquerque. The land was inexpensive and the opportunity golden. In 1984, Gilbert Gruet, whose Champagne house, Gruet et Fils had produced fine Champagne in Bethon, France, since 1952, made the decision to plant an experimental vineyard, exclusively planted to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. His children, winemaker Laurent and daughter Nathalie followed, relocated to New Mexico in order to join in the new American endeavor.

At 4,300 ft. these vineyards are some of the highest in the United States! Regardless of how hot the days might be, the temperature at night can drop as much as thirty degrees, cooling the fruit and slowing down the maturation process on an otherwise short growing season. Sandy and loamy soil, and a lack of humidity that might contribute to rot, allows for a consistency of fruit year in and year out, as well as the ability to produce wines without the use of pesticides.