NV Jaillance 'Cuvee Imperiale' Clairette de Die, France

Even more, it’s a symbol of quality, a mark of tradition and a guarantee of a truly authentic wine. The area around Die is isolated, situated 30 miles east and well above the main Rhone Valley vineyard area. Craggy outcrops of glacial rock formations and steep alpine cliffs intermingle with the numerous small vineyard plots.

Clairette de Die is the appellation name for sparkling white wines from the Die area, yet somewhat curiously, Clairette is not the lead grape in Clairette de Die, which must consist of at least 75% Muscat. Only up to 25% Clairette is permitted, and it’s used to provide elegance and finesse to the otherwise intensely floral Muscat variety.

Jaillance’s “Cuvee Imperiale” deliciously demonstrates how the two varieties complement one another. It’s a terrific sparkling wine for toasting a special occasion or simply sipping with a good book.