# Gamla Brut Sparkling (NV)

- **Producer:** Golan Heights Winery
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Golan Heights, Israel
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 11.5%
- **Average price:** €29
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 6–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, pear, lemon, grapefruit, pastry, brioche, biscuit

## About this wine

Gamla Brut Sparkling is a Non-Vintage (NV) sparkling wine from the Golan Heights Winery in Israel. It is produced using the traditional method, a technique also employed for Champagne. The wine is a blend of 50% Chardonnay and 50% Pinot Noir, with grapes sourced from the Golan Heights region within the Galilee. This area is characterized by its volcanic plateau, with vineyards situated at elevations between 400 and 1200 meters, contributing to a cooler climate and basaltic clay soils. Golan Heights Winery was established in 1983 by a cooperative of kibbutzim and moshavim, with a mission to produce quality wines for both domestic and international markets, combining traditional winemaking with modern advancements. Gamla Brut is recognized as an early contributor to the quality sparkling wine scene in Israel.

## Interesting facts

- Made using the traditional method, like Champagne.
- Grapes grown on volcanic soils at high altitudes.
- One of Israel's first quality sparkling wines.
- A blend of equal parts Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

## Food pairing

The wine's crisp acidity and dry profile cut through richness and fat, making it an excellent counterpoint to seafood and pâtés. Its delicate mousse also complements lighter textures without overpowering them.

## Wine making process

Gamla Brut Sparkling is produced using the traditional method, also known as Méthode Champenoise. This involves pressing whole grape clusters before primary fermentation, which occurs in stainless steel tanks. Following this, the wine undergoes a secondary fermentation directly in the bottle, a crucial step for developing its characteristic bubbles and complex aromas. The wine is then aged on its lees for a minimum of one year before disgorging. The grapes, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, are cultivated in the Golan Heights region, known for its volcanic soils and elevated vineyards.