Schramsberg “J. Schram” Blancs 2016
(North Coast, California) - [WE 98] [JS 95] [WS 95]

About this Wine:
From the inception of Schramsberg’s efforts in 1965, the winery has sought to achieve the greatest elegance and individuality possible in our sparkling wines. J. Schram epitomizes Schramsberg’s philosophy to create a wine in which no effort has been spared and no care has been omitted. Representing only 2-3% of the winery’s annual production, the Chardonnay-focused J. Schram Blancs blend is assembled from the very best base wine lots of the approximately 300 produced each year. This special bottling is dedicated to Schramsberg’s founder, Jacob Schram, and has been a great success since its premier 1987 vintage was released in 1992.

Cluster samples from over 115 cool-climate vineyard sources are pulled several times before the optimal pick date for each block is selected. Complexity within the wine is gained through both oak barrel and stainless steel tank fermentation. Additional layers are provided through small lots that undergo malolactic fermentation, enriching aromas and infusing creaminess on the palate. Our J. Schram Blancs is aged for eight years on the yeast in Schramsberg’s historic Diamond Mountain caves; each bottle is then riddled by hand, and finished with an exceptional brut dosage.

J. Schram Blancs is quite appealing on its own as an apéritif or enjoyed with fresh shellfish, caviar on toast point, smoked salmon, sharp cheeses, seafood brochettes, cedar-planked lobster, mesquite-grilled quail, or Serrano ham and porcini risotto.

Tasting Notes: Our 2016 J. Schram Blancs has generous aromas of baked apple, brioche toast, lemon curd, and ripe pear, with layers of pineapple upside-down cake, honey, and spiced citrus. The palate presents flavors of crème brûlée, baked pear, and almond paste, anchored by a bright, juicy center that carries through to a long-lasting, vibrant finish.- Winemakers Sean Thompson, Jessica Koga and Hugh Davies

Blend: 81% Chardonnay, 19% Pinot Noir

Ratings & Reviews

98 Points "Cellar Selection" - Wine Enthusiast:
Produced in a lean style, this 100% Chardonnay can be aged or enjoyed anytime. The expressive nose evokes crisp green apple, Asian pear, caramel, spearmint, and green fig. Round and lush, the midpalate has a firm, creamy mousse, with flavors of baked Pink Lady apple, white peach, satsuma orange, and Fuyu persimmon. The long finish highlights Meyer lemon, makrut cream, marjoram, and mineral.

95 Points - Wine Spectator:
"Flamboyant and unapologetically California in style, this sparkler offers rich and succulent Asian pear and baked apple flavors accented with fresh brioche, yeasty nut roll and spice tones that lend a touch of opulence. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Drink now. 2,043 cases made." – Tim Fish (Dec 2025)

95 Points - James Suckling:
"There’s a lovely vibrancy and freshness here, even though it’s heading into its tenth year, showing aromas of preserved lemons, yellow apples, seashells, jasmine, pastry cream and salted nuts. The palate has good energy and dense fruit, with bright acidity and a mouthwatering finish. A very generous and delicious sparkling wine. Drink or hold." (Feb 2026)