BWS looks at some unique sparkling wines and champagnes

Henkell Trocken is an absolute exception in the German and international markets for sparkling wine.

In market surveys, the brand consistently receives higher levels of recognition than any other sparkling wine. For many decades, it has also been prized as the classic German sparkling wine.

This Rhine Valley sparkling wine (11.5% alc) is distinguished by a unique cuvee blend from selected classic grape varieties. Its delicate pale straw colour is enlivened through the play of green reflections. A fine bouquet of fruity notes, citrus characters and harmonious composition make Henkell Trocken invitingly light. The palate is smooth and creamy with tingling fruit and a lingering finish.

Internationally acclaimed, Henkell Trocken’s most recent awards include Gold medals at Vinalies Internationales 2011, France and at the Los Angeles International Wine & Spirit Awards 2010.

Henkell’s success began with a wine lover. Adam Henkell (1801-1866), the founder of today’s Henkell & Co, started in 1832 as a wine merchant in Mainz, Germany. In 1856, Adam Henkell began producing sparkling wine, but Adam’s grandson Otto achieved the initial breakthrough on the international markets with Henkell Trocken, at the end of the 19th century. In 1945, Otto assumed management of the company and established and grew the brand to what it is today, Germany’s number-one exported sparkling wine.

Parisian glamour in a bottle

Champagne and haute couture have merged together in a tres chic new collaboration between luxury champagne house Piper-Heidsieck and French fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier.

For a limited time only, the Piper-Heidsieck Cuvee Brut will wear a seductive Jean Paul Gaultier outfit inspired by the allure and glamour of the Parisian cabaret and nightlife. The Piper-Heidsieck “French Cancan” par Jean Paul Gaultier features a black latex champagne skin and fishnet stocking, complete with a lipstick-red mask, designed to reflect the pleasures of Paris.

The 2011 collaboration marks the second partnership between the two famous French houses. In 1999, Jean Paul Gaultier became the first couturier to dress a champagne bottle after he created a leather corset for Piper-Heidsieck.

New Zealand brand manager for Piper-Heidsieck, Prue Hill, says Jean Paul Gaultier is the perfect match for the champagne.

“The French Cancan design Jean Paul Gaultier has created for the Brut Cuvee reflects the sensual nature of the champagne and the rich and glamorous history of the Piper-Heidsieck house,” says Hill.

“Jean Paul Gaultier himself adores Piper-Heidsieck champagne, and is known to toast at the end of each and every one of his fashion shows with a glass of the liquid gold. We are delighted that the two fabulous French houses could meet once again to create such a unique and stylish design that champagne and fashion lovers alike will enjoy.”

Piper-Heidsieck has been producing champagne with an added touch of elegance since 1785. Known for its extravagance and style, Piper-Heidsieck has been the favourite drop of glamorous women across the centuries, including Marie Antoinette and Marilyn Monroe.

Over the years, Piper-Heidsieck has also worked with some of the biggest names in fashion and design, from Viktor + Rolf to Jaime Hayon to Christian Louboutin.

The Piper-Heidsieck “French Cancan” par Jean Paul Gaultier is available exclusively from Glengarry stores for $59.90.

Alcohol-free sparkling wine

‘Sutter Home Fre’ is an alcohol removed Brut and one of six variants imported by International Aotearoa since 2003 with increasing growth every year. It is a sophisticated non-alcoholic alternative for those customers wanting to join in with the crowd, but for many reasons cannot or should not consume alcohol. The alcohol-free sparkling wine is available at Progressive Enterprises supermarkets, says International Aotearoa director Raylene O’Connor.