AOC Bugey Pétillant

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 expertise passed down through generations. This is particularly true for its famous Cerdon du Bugey, a sparkling rosé wine made using the ancestral method, which, unlike the traditional method (used in Champagne), retains a low alcohol content and natural sweetness (with no added sugar).

Climate and Terroir of the AOC Bugey Mousseux Appellation

• Climate: Influenced by a moderate continental climate with mountain influences, Bugey enjoys ideal conditions to maintain the fresh quality in the wines of this appellation.
• Soils: The soils of Bugey, mainly composed of limestone and clay, contribute to the freshness and fine minerality of its sparkling wines.

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

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

Style of AOC Bugey Mousseux Wines

Sparkling White Wine (traditional method): Pale yellow color with fine, 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 nice liveliness and an elegant finish.

Rosé Wine (ancestral method, Cerdon du Bugey): Bright pink hue with light bubbles inviting tasting. The nose features notes of fresh red fruits like strawberry and raspberry, with a hint of candy. The naturally low alcohol content (around 8°) and sweetness (residual sugar) make Cerdon du Bugey pleasantly indulgent and accessible. These sparkling wines retain freshness and charm with their fruity aromas.

Best Food and Wine Pairings with AOC Bugey Mousseux Wines

Here are some tips for pairing food and wine with a bottle of AOC Bugey sparkling white or rosé (Cerdon):

• Sparkling White Wine: Smoked haddock or salmon, crayfish risotto, gratinated oysters.
• Sparkling Rosé (Cerdon): As an aperitif, cherry clafoutis, raspberry tart, panna cotta with red berries.