Traditional method sparkling wine from Moschofilero grapes, aged 19 months on lees. Vibrant straw colour with botanical, oak, and yeasty aromas.
The Experiential Blanc de Gris 2020 is a traditional method sparkling wine crafted from Moschofilero grapes using meticulous vineyard selection and extended lees ageing. This Brut-style wine displays a vibrant straw colour with fine, persistent bubbles and a complex aromatic profile that balances botanical notes, elegant oak influence, and delicate yeast character. On the palate, it offers richness, creaminess, and subtle spice, finishing long with a refreshing tannic edge.
Key Features
- Traditional method sparkling wine with 19 months of lees contact for depth and complexity
- 100% Moschofilero grapes, hand-harvested and chilled to preserve delicate aromatics
- Fermented in stainless steel, then finished in used French oak barriques for six months with periodic bâtonnage
- Vibrant straw colour with fine, persistent bubbles and a surprisingly layered nose
- Rich, creamy palate with botanical, oak, and yeasty notes, balanced by refreshing acidity
- Brut style with 10.8 g/L residual sugar, 12% alcohol, and a pH of 3.1
- Disgorged in January 2023, offering optimal maturity and freshness
Winemaking & Technical Details
After careful manual harvest, the grapes were cooled to 5°C and gently pressed without destemming to extract only the finest, clearest juice. Following cold static sedimentation in stainless steel tanks, the must fermented at controlled temperatures before being transferred to used French oak barriques to complete fermentation. The base wine underwent six months of barrel ageing with periodic bâtonnage to enhance texture and complexity. It was then bottled unfiltered for the second fermentation and remained in contact with its lees for 19 months, developing fine mousse and nuanced flavour.
Analytical Data: Alcohol 12% vol., Total Acidity 6.7 g/L, pH 3.1, Residual Sugars 10.8 g/L.
Recommended Pairings: This wine complements salmon, deep-fried fish, spicy dishes, Asian cuisine, tempuras, and deep-fried chicken. Its creamy texture and refreshing acidity balance rich, umami-forward flavours.
About Milia Riza
Milia Riza produces thoughtfully crafted wines that reflect careful vineyard management and precise winemaking technique. Each wine is supported by reflection, critical analysis, and synthesis, ensuring quality and expression in every bottle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the traditional method of sparkling wine production?
- The traditional method involves a second fermentation in the bottle, where the wine develops its bubbles naturally over extended lees contact. This process creates finer bubbles, greater complexity, and a richer texture compared to other sparkling wine methods.
- What does 19 months on lees mean for this wine?
- Lees contact refers to the time the wine spends resting on its yeast sediment after the second fermentation. Nineteen months of lees ageing imparts creamy texture, toasty complexity, and enhanced mouthfeel, contributing to the wine's richness and depth.
- What is Moschofilero and what flavours does it bring?
- Moschofilero is a Greek grape variety known for its aromatic profile, floral notes, and crisp acidity. In sparkling wine, it contributes botanical complexity, vibrant freshness, and a delicate spice character that pairs well with diverse cuisines.
- How should I serve and store this wine?
- Serve chilled at 6-8°C to preserve its fine mousse and aromatic complexity. Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place away from temperature fluctuations. Once disgorged, the wine is ready to enjoy but can be cellared for additional short-term development.
Discover the depth and elegance of a traditional method sparkling wine crafted from Moschofilero grapes with meticulous attention to detail.
Experience the elegance of Milia Riza's The Experiential Blanc de Gris 2020, a traditional method sparkling wine from Moschofilero grapes, aged 19 months on lees, offering vibrant complexity and Mediterranean charm.
