Culbertson Sparkling Wines are produced at Thorton Winery
using the classic méthode champenoise tradition. This intricate, time-consuming process
yields sparkling wines of exceptional quality, as evidenced by the numerous awards won by
these wines. Winemaker Jon McPherson is justifiably proud of his consistent record and the
fact that his expertise has made Culbertson a brand name synonomous with excellence and
value. Thorton winery is set in the golden hills of the Temecula wine country in
Southern California. Established in 1981, Thorton was developed from the outset for the
production of sparkling wine. Since 1985, when Jon McPherson first joined the winery as
winemaker, Thorton Winery has consistently been awarded medals for excellence for its
Culbertson sparkling wines.
The Culbertson Brut is true to the Culbertson style: lots of fruit and clean,
fresh yeast aromas. This Brut reflects the grape varieties, its age, and the care that
went into making the blend. Thorton uses several different vineyards, each producing wines
with subtle differences and distinctions. Aged en tirage a minimun of 18 months prior to
being finished, the Culbertson non-vintage Brut is a delightfully complex champagne.
The Culbertson Blanc de Noir is produced from 90% Pinot Noir grapes and 10%
Chardonnay, with a depth and rich fruit character indigenous to the varieties. The
eighteen months spent en tirage are reflected in the nice floral fragrance with hints of
strawberry and yeast, giving the wine a rich and complex aroma that seduces and
captivates. Wine and Spirits awarded the Culbertson Blanc de Noir a '93' rating and
noted the wine's "delicate fruit on the palate harmonizes with a lush, creamy texture
leading to a subtle, dry finish."
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