Extra Brut is a term used to describe a type of sparkling wine that is characterized by its dryness and high acidity. It is often considered the driest style of sparkling wine, but not as bone-dry as Brut Nature. The term “extra” in Extra Brut emphasizes the wine's dryness, indicating that it contains very little or no added sugar.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and exploring various sparkling wines, and Extra Brut is always an intriguing category to explore. When you come across an Extra Brut wine, you can expect a crisp and refreshing experience with a pronounced acidity that stimulates your taste buds.
The primary characteristic of Extra Brut is its minimal dosage, which refers to the addition of a small amount of sugar before corking the bottle. In the case of Extra Brut, this dosage is kept to an absolute minimum or even eliminated entirely. This lack of sweetness allows the natural acidity of the wine to shine through, creating a vibrant and lively profile.
The acidity in Extra Brut wines can range from high to very high, depending on the producer and the grape varietal used. This acidity provides a clean and zesty mouthfeel, leaving your palate refreshed and invigorated. It can be particularly appealing to those who enjoy wines with a crisp and tart character.
Despite its dryness, Extra Brut wines can still exhibit a wide range of flavors. These can include notes of citrus fruits like lemon and grapefruit, along with green apple, pear, and even hints of mineral or saline characteristics. The lack of sweetness allows these flavors to be more pronounced and focused, making for a captivating tasting experience.
In terms of food pairings, Extra Brut wines are incredibly versatile. Their high acidity makes them an excellent choice to cut through rich and fatty foods, such as oysters, caviar, or foie gras. They also work well with delicate seafood dishes, salads, and fresh cheeses. Personally, I have enjoyed Extra Brut Champagne with a plate of freshly shucked oysters, and the combination was simply divine.
When choosing an Extra Brut sparkling wine, it's essential to consider the producer's style and the grape varietals used. Different regions and grape varieties can yield distinct expressions of Extra Brut, each with its own unique characteristics. For example, Champagne is widely known for its Extra Brut offerings, but you can also find exceptional examples from other regions like Franciacorta in Italy or Cava in Spain.
To summarize, Extra Brut sparkling wine is a dry and highly acidic style that showcases the natural flavors and acidity of the wine without the addition of significant amounts of sugar. It offers a crisp and refreshing experience, with flavors ranging from citrus fruits to mineral notes. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with food, Extra Brut wines are a delightful choice for those who appreciate the pure expression of sparkling wine.