As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that spumante brut is indeed considered dry. However, it is important to note that the term “brut” can be a bit confusing when it comes to sparkling wines. While it generally implies a dry style, it doesn't give us the exact sugar content of the wine.
In the case of spumante, which is an Italian sparkling wine, the term “brut” is often used to indicate that it is on the drier side of the sweetness spectrum. To determine the sweetness level of a spumante brut, we need to look at its residual sugar content.
Residual sugar refers to the amount of sugar that remains in the wine after fermentation is complete. It is measured in grams per liter (g/L) or grams per 100 milliliters (g/100 ml). The higher the residual sugar, the sweeter the wine will taste.
Spumante brut typically falls into the dry or secco category, which means it has a relatively low residual sugar content. According to the regulations set by the Italian wine authorities, spumante brut can have up to 12 grams of residual sugar per liter. This translates to about 32 grams of residual sugar per bottle.
However, it's worth noting that there is also a category called “extra brut” in the spumante classification, which indicates an even drier style with less than 6 grams of residual sugar per liter. These wines can be extremely dry and are often enjoyed by those who prefer a more crisp and refreshing taste.
On the other hand, if a spumante has a higher residual sugar content, it may be classified as “extra dry” or “medium-dry.” Extra dry spumante can have up to 17 grams of residual sugar per liter (which is about 50 grams per bottle), while medium-dry spumante can have up to 32 grams of residual sugar per liter (around 90 grams per bottle).
It's important to keep in mind that these sweetness levels are general guidelines and can vary slightly depending on the producer and the specific wine. It's always a good idea to check the label or consult with a knowledgeable sommelier or wine expert to get a better understanding of the specific spumante you're interested in.
In my personal experience, I've had the pleasure of tasting various spumante brut wines, and they have consistently offered a refreshing and dry profile. The crisp acidity and delicate bubbles make them a popular choice for celebrations or as an aperitif. The dryness of spumante brut allows it to pair well with a variety of foods, from seafood and shellfish to light pasta dishes and even certain desserts.
So, to summarize, spumante brut is generally considered a dry sparkling wine. However, it's always a good idea to check the specific residual sugar content to get a more accurate idea of its sweetness level. Cheers!