I open a bottle of wine almost every day (well, Gary does for me.) I enjoy all of them, believing wholeheartedly that every glass is an adventure, and figuring out what that adventure is brings as much enjoyment as the flavors, texture, aroma, and character of the wine. Sometimes, however, you have a chance to sip something truly special.

The inaugural release of Gran Moraine Winery’s 2014 Blanc de Blancs Estate Sparkling Wine ($90) is that. From the Gran Moraine estate in Willamette Valley’s Yamhill-Carlton district, known for delivering fruit with a note of minerality, beautiful texture, vibrant acidity, and luscious flavor, the 100% Chardonnay sparkler is aged for 5 yrs, 9 months, en triage, or on the lees in the bottle before disgorgement. The time on the lees (yeasts) lends toasty, fresh-baked bread notes to the bubbly, melding harmoniously with lemon cream, soft herbs, ripe melon, pear, and tangerine. A wine to enjoy as an aperitif, and carry you through dinner with a nice gastronomic profile, showcasing anything from poached lobster or salmon, lemon risotto, spring souffle, or, of course, caviar. Only 152 cases of this beauty were produced. Let’s hope we see more in the future. #Cheers