As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Andre Brut Champagne is not considered “real” champagne. The term “champagne” is legally protected and can only be used to describe sparkling wine produced in the Champagne region of France, using specific grape varieties and production methods.
Andre Brut Champagne is produced in California, which means it does not meet the geographical requirements to be classified as champagne. However, it is important to note that Andre Brut Champagne is still a sparkling wine and can certainly be enjoyed for its own unique characteristics.
When it comes to taste, Andre Brut Champagne is crisp and slightly sweet. It offers a refreshing experience with its fruity notes of green apple, pear, and sweet lemon. The flavor profile is relatively simple, making it an approachable and easy-to-drink sparkling wine.
I have personally found Andre Brut Champagne to be a versatile option that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of foods. Its slightly sweet nature makes it a great choice to accompany desserts, while its crispness and fruitiness make it suitable for lighter dishes such as salads or seafood.
In terms of its production, Andre Brut Champagne is made from a blend of white grapes. While the specific grape varieties used in the blend are not disclosed, it is likely that a combination of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes are used, as these are the traditional grape varieties used in champagne production.
While Andre Brut Champagne may not be considered “real” champagne in the strict sense, it still offers a pleasant and enjoyable sparkling wine experience. Its crispness, fruitiness, and slight sweetness make it a versatile option for various occasions.