Brut, in the context of wine, specifically sparkling wine, refers to a level of sweetness or residual sugar in the wine. It is a term used to describe the dryness of the wine, indicating that it contains very little to no sugar.
When it comes to sparkling wine, there are different levels of sweetness, ranging from very dry to very sweet. Brut is the most common style of sparkling wine and is known for its bone-dry character. It is often described as having no detectable sweetness on the palate.
To understand the sweetness levels in sparkling wine, it is helpful to know about the different classifications. The sweetness levels in sparkling wine are categorized based on the amount of residual sugar in the wine, which is the natural sugar left after fermentation. The sweetness levels, from driest to sweetest, are Extra Brut, Brut, Extra Dry (which is actually slightly sweeter than Brut), Sec, Demi-Sec, and Doux.
Brut sparkling wine typically has no more than 12 grams per litre of residual sugar. This low level of sweetness allows the true flavors of the wine to shine through without being masked by any perceptible sweetness. It is a style that is often favored by those who enjoy dry wines.
Non-vintage Champagnes and Cavas, which are sparkling wines from the Champagne and Cava regions respectively, are commonly produced in the Brut style. These wines are made from a blend of grapes and are aged for a minimum period of time before release. The aim is to create a consistent and balanced wine that showcases the signature characteristics of the region.
Personally, I have always been a fan of Brut sparkling wines. I appreciate their crispness, elegance, and ability to pair well with a variety of foods. I find that the lack of sweetness allows the natural acidity and fruit flavors to take center stage, creating a refreshing and enjoyable drinking experience.
Brut in wine, specifically sparkling wine, refers to a dry style with very little to no sweetness. It is the most common level of sweetness for non-vintage Champagnes and Cavas. The absence of perceptible sweetness allows the true flavors of the wine to shine through, making it a popular choice for those who prefer dry wines.