The official sparkling wine of the White House is Schramsberg. This renowned winery, located in Calistoga, California, has a long and storied history of producing exceptional sparkling wines. Schramsberg's sparkling wines have been chosen to be served at official State functions by every U.S. Presidential administration since 1972.
One of the most notable moments in Schramsberg's history occurred in 1972 when their Blanc de Blancs was selected to be used for President Nixon's “Toast to Peace” with China's Premier Zhou Enlai. This event was a pivotal moment in world history, as it marked the beginning of a new era of diplomatic relations between the United States and China. The choice of Schramsberg's Blanc de Blancs for this momentous occasion speaks to the exceptional quality and prestige of their sparkling wines.
I had the privilege of tasting Schramsberg's Blanc de Blancs during a visit to their winery, and it truly left a lasting impression. The wine was beautifully crafted, with delicate bubbles and a vibrant acidity. The aromas of crisp green apples and citrus fruits were enticing, and the palate was filled with flavors of lemon, pear, and a hint of toasted brioche. The wine had a long, elegant finish that left me wanting another sip.
Schramsberg's commitment to quality is evident in every bottle they produce. Their sparkling wines are made using the traditional method, also known as the méthode champenoise, which involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle to create the bubbles. This labor-intensive process requires great skill and attention to detail, but the result is a sparkling wine of exceptional complexity and finesse.
The White House's choice to serve Schramsberg's sparkling wines at official State functions is a testament to the winery's reputation and the quality of their wines. It is an honor that they have held for nearly five decades, spanning multiple Presidential administrations. The consistent selection of Schramsberg by the White House is a testament to the winery's ability to consistently produce outstanding sparkling wines year after year.
In addition to their Blanc de Blancs, Schramsberg also offers a range of other sparkling wines, including a Blanc de Noirs, a Brut Rosé, and a Reserve sparkling wine. Each of these wines showcases the unique characteristics of the grapes used, resulting in a diverse and intriguing portfolio of sparkling wines.
Schramsberg is the official sparkling wine of the White House. Their sparkling wines have been chosen to be served at official State functions by every U.S. Presidential administration since 1972. This prestigious designation is a testament to the exceptional quality and reputation of Schramsberg's sparkling wines. Whether enjoyed during a historic toast to peace or at a celebratory event, Schramsberg's sparkling wines are sure to impress with their elegance, complexity, and outstanding craftsmanship.