GRAPE VARIETAL
Made primarily from Chardonnay with a small dose of Folle Blanche contributing brightness and acidity. The two varietals provide a rich aromatic profile and high acid retention—ideal for sparkling wine structure and freshness.
APPELLATION
A vin mousseux produced in France, with fruit typically sourced from cooler Atlantic-influenced regions like the Loire Valley. Though not AOC-classified, Kraemer adheres to traditional French sparkling standards.
TERROIR
Vineyards lie on clay-limestone soils with maritime breezes and temperate conditions. The cool climate slows ripening, preserving malic acidity and promoting crisp citrus and green apple notes. Low elevation and consistent rainfall support healthy canopy growth and balanced yields.
VINIFICATION
Crafted using the Charmat method in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Kraemer undergoes secondary fermentation in pressurized cuves to retain primary fruit character and produce a fine, persistent mousse. Lees aging is up to 3 months—to maintain freshness. Final dosage is adjusted to Brut level, with residual sugar around 10–12 g/L.
TASTING NOTES
Fresh and vibrant, showing green apple, lemon zest, and white flower aromas. The palate is crisp and clean, with subtle notes of almond and toast. A fine bead and balanced acidity lead to a refreshing, dry finish.
FOOD PAIRING
Pairs well with raw shellfish, smoked salmon, chèvre, and light poultry dishes. Also excellent as an aperitif or in sparkling cocktails like mimosas and French 75s.
I freely admit that I tend to champion the little guys in the wine world. Supporting small, independent vignerons, importers, and distributors is my personal passion, and it forms the foundation of the AWM ethos. Most of the time, we firmly plant our support behind the small and independent; however, regular readers of this newsletter know I often opine that “big” doesn’t necessarily mean “bad.” There are occasions when big can actually be best, and this is particularly true when it comes to value-driven sparkling wine.
Enter Les Grands Chais de France and their charmingly accessible Kraemer Blanc de Blancs Brut. Les Grands Chais de France is one of the largest producers and exporters in France, and I couldn’t even hazard a guess at their annual production figures. I won’t wax poetic about this ginormous vinous juggernaut; however, I will wax on a bit about how good they are at what they do.
They’ve definitely cracked the code on producing delicious, high-quality sparkling wines that don’t break the bank. Most importantly, and nicely in line with the AWM ethos, their enormous output is thanks to the partnerships with hundreds, if not thousands, of independent vignerons throughout France. I’m suitably impressed that despite their massive global scale, this vinous powerhouse remains family-owned and operated.
Kraemer Blanc de Blancs Brut is a classic AWM second label arranged by my direct import partner. The best part of getting this second-label bottling is that it holds the very same bubbly goodness as the producer’s internationally distributed first label. What’s the difference? AWM regulars and newsletter subscribers get this second label at the price I’d normally pay wholesale for their premier brand.
In your glass, you’re greeted with lively aromas of fresh green apple, subtle citrus, and gentle floral notes. The crisp, refreshing palate echoes the vibrant aromas, rounding out with lovely notes of apple and pear in the lively bubbles. I like to think of this sparkling beauty from the Loire as a slightly sophisticated French cousin to a good-quality Prosecco.
Kraemer Blanc de Blancs Brut is our new favorite Tuesday-night sparkler—easy-going, super-tasty, and perfect for relaxing after a long day. It’s also our go-to companion in classic cocktails like Aperol Spritz, Kir, or Mimosa. Kraemer Blanc de Blancs also makes the perfect bubbly sidekick for crispy fried chicken, sushi rolls, spicy Thai food, and especially salty snack classics like popcorn and potato chips.