When most people think of Cabernet Sauvignon, they imagine a deep, rich red wine known for its robust flavors of black currants, dark cherries, and hints of green pepper.
However, there exists a delightful and unusual variant that challenges this traditional perception: Sparkling White Cabernet Sauvignon. Among the notable examples of this rare wine is the Métier Brut Nature from the Radacini Wines (Republic of Moldova).
The winery has garnered international acclaim by winning the title of World's Best Cabernet at the prestigious Concours International des Cabernets competition in Anse, France.
Radacini Métier Brut Nature: A Moldovan Masterpiece
On May 28, a panel of professional sommeliers evaluated nearly 150 wines produced from Cabernet grapes at the Concours International des Cabernets. The competition awarded 47 Gold and Silver medals to wines from 17 countries, with Radacini Métier Brut Nature standing out for its exceptional balance and refinement. This sparkling wine captured the grand jury’s attention with its exquisite bouquet, featuring aromas of pear, yellow peach, citrus, and elegant notes of freshly baked bread.
Radacini Métier Brut Nature is made as a white wine from red grapes of Cabernet Sauvignon using the classic method perfected in Champagne, which involves secondary fermentation in the bottle. The accolades for this wine extend beyond the Concours International des Cabernets; it also won Gold medals at the Effervescents du Monde 2023 in France and the Portugal Wine Trophy 2023.
The Art of Métier: Crafting Exceptional Sparkling Wines
The name "Métier" originates from the French word for "professional" or "master," symbolizing the expertise, skill, and mastery that are integral to the creation of our exceptional sparkling wines. This name is not merely a label but a testament to the winery's dedication and commitment to the art of winemaking.
Peresecina village, where the Métier was born, is located in Codru PGI (Moldova), and stands out for its meticulous cultivation of white and black-grained grapes, leading to the creation of some of the finest sparkling wines in the world. White sparkling wines range from straw yellow to golden yellow, while rosé sparkling wines display pale pink to pink hues, and red sparkling wines exhibit red to ruby red tones. These sparkling wines are distinguished by their long beading and abundant foaming, with a fine floral bouquet and a round, ample taste, but also elevated acidity and refreshment.
Wine Tasting
The Métier wine range draws its inspiration from the illustrious traditions of the Champagne region in France, where the art of crafting sparkling wines has been perfected over centuries. The Champagne region is renowned for its stringent standards, exceptional quality, and the unique Méthode Traditionnelle, a meticulous process that we have adopted and adapted to produce the sparkling wines. This method involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle, a technique that imparts complexity, depth, and finesse to the wine, resulting in a product that embodies elegance and sophistication.
By adhering to this time-honored process, Radacini Wines ensure that each bottle of Métier sparkling wine is crafted with the highest standards of excellence. Below we would like to explore the best Métier sparklings from the estate's portfolio:
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Métier Brut Nature (Cabernet Sauvignon 100%): The wine presents a clear gold color with delicate and light bubbles, indicating its refined carbonation and sparkling nature. The bouquet is inviting and complex, featuring notes of pear, yellow peach, and citrus. These fruit aromas are complemented by delicate floral undertones and the enticing scent of freshly baked bread, indicative of its extended aging on lees. On the palate, this sparkling white Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits a lively texture. There is a delightful balance between the bright fruit notes and a subtle minerality, creating a sense of harmony and depth. At least 18 months on the lees.
Awards:
- The World’s Best Cabernet, Concours International des Cabernets, 2024
- Gold Medal, Effervescents du Monde, 2023
- Gold Medal, Portugal Wine Trophy, 2023
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Métier Brut White (Chardonnay 70%, Pinot Noir 15%, Sauvignon Blanc 15%): The wine has a clear gold color with a bright robe and green reflections. It features delicate and light bubbles, indicating its refined sparkling nature. On the nose, there are inviting notes of green apple, ripe pear, and citrus zest. These fresh fruit aromas are accompanied by the comforting scent of freshly baked bread, a characteristic imparted by the aging on lees. The palate is graced with the flavors of orchard fruits, such as apple and pear, mingling with nuances of lemon curd and brioche. The texture is creamy yet light, offering a harmonious and pleasing mouthfeel. At least 9 months on the lees.
Awards:
- Best of the Show Moldova Sparkling, Mundus Vini, 2024
- Best Wine from Moldova, Frankfurt Wine Trophy, 2024
- Gold Medal, Challenge International du Vin, 2024
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Métier Brut Rosé (Pinot Grigio 55%, Sauvignon Blanc 45%): The wine exhibits a pale pink color with delicate and light bubbles, indicating its elegant sparkling nature. The nose is delicate and fruity, with enticing notes of red fruits and berries such as red currant, cherry, and raspberry. These fruit aromas are overlaid with delicate hints of pink grapefruit, adding a refreshing citrusy dimension. On the palate, the wine presents a fresh character combined with a refined structure and roundness. The elegant finish leaves lingering notes of red berries and citrus, creating a balanced and satisfying tasting experience. At least 9 months on the lees.
Awards:
- Silver Medal, VinAsia Seoul, 2022
- Gold Medal, Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, 2021
- Gold Medal, Vinarium, 2021
Moldova’s Commitment to Excellence
Each wine, with its unique varietal composition and meticulous production process, offers a distinct tasting experience that is both sophisticated and memorable, showing the passion that defines Radacini Wines' approach to winemaking!
The title of “The World’s Best Cabernet 2024” for Radacini Métier Brut Nature reaffirms Moldova’s dedication to producing wines of the highest quality. Over the past decade, Moldovan wines have garnered more than 6,700 international awards and recognitions, showcasing an unwavering dedication to crafting exceptional wines. This success is largely attributed to the establishment of Wine of Moldova as the national brand, which has strategically promoted the country’s rich viticultural heritage on the global stage.