AOC Bugey Mousseux

History of the AOC Bugey Mousseux Appellation

Nestled in eastern France, on the lower slopes of the Jura Mountains, the Bugey region is known for its ancient winemaking tradition. The AOC Bugey is renowned for its sparkling wines, a product of craftsmanship passed down through generations. Notably, the famous Cerdon du Bugey, a sparkling rosé wine made using the ancestral method, stands out. Unlike the traditional method (used in Champagne), this method retains a low alcohol content and natural sweetness without any added sugar.

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Bugey Mousseux Appellation

Climate: Influenced by a moderate continental climate with mountainous influences, Bugey enjoys ideal conditions for maintaining the freshness in its wines.

Soils: The soils of Bugey, mainly composed of limestone and clay, contribute to the freshness and mineral finesse of its sparkling wines.

Chardonnay, Gamay, and Poulsard: The Grape Varieties of AOC Bugey Mousseux

For sparkling white wine, the traditional method (Cru Montagnieu) primarily involves the use of Chardonnay, offering elegance and complexity. The sparkling rosé, also known as Cerdon du Bugey, made using the ancestral method (bottling the wine before the end of alcoholic fermentation), uses red grape varieties such as Poulsard and Gamay, bringing fruitiness and liveliness.

Style of AOC Bugey Mousseux Wines

Sparkling White Wine (Traditional Method): Straw yellow color with fine and persistent bubbles. The nose reveals delicate aromas of white flowers, white-fleshed fruits, and citrus, with a hint of brioche. The palate is fresh and balanced, with a beautiful liveliness and an elegant finish.

Sparkling Rosé (Ancestral Method - Cerdon du Bugey): Bright pink hue with light bubbles inviting tasting. The nose presents notes of fresh red fruits, like strawberry and raspberry, with a hint of candy. The palate, naturally low in alcohol (around 8°) and sweet (residual sugar), makes Cerdon du Bugey pleasantly indulgent and accessible. Despite its sweetness, these sparkling wines do not lack freshness and charm with their fruity aromas.

Best Food Pairings with AOC Bugey Mousseux Wines

Here are some recommendations for the best food pairings with a bottle of wine from a domain or château in AOC Bugey, whether white or rosé (Cerdon):

Sparkling White Wine:

• Cheese gougères
• Crayfish risotto
• Gratinated oysters

Sparkling Rosé (Cerdon):

• As an aperitif
• Cherry clafoutis
• Raspberry tart
• Panna cotta with red fruits