Gruet Sparkling Wine
New Mexico high desert bubbles, French method, priced for Tuesday.
The story behind Gruet
Gilbert Gruet brought his family from Champagne to New Mexico in 1983, planted experimental vines in 1984, and released the first commercial vintage in 1989. The draw was altitude: sandy loam vineyards around 4,300 feet, some of the highest in the United States, where hot days and cold nights hold acidity in the fruit the way northern France does.
Gruet still ferments the second time inside the bottle, the traditional method, and rests non-vintage cuvees on the lees 18 to 24 months. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir do the work, with a little Pinot Meunier in the mix. Precept Wine bought the brand in 2015. We have poured these bubbles for years because the price never argues with the glass.
Explore the Gruet range
Four core bottlings cover the whole table, from bone dry to softly sweet, all traditional method and all under twenty dollars on our shelf.
| Expression | Type | Proof / ABV | Tasting notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gruet Brut 750mL | Brut | 12% ABV | 75% Chardonnay, 25% Pinot Noir; crisp, green apple, toast |
| Gruet Brut Rose 750mL | Brut Rose | 12% ABV | 100% Pinot Noir; strawberry, bright acid, dry finish |
| Gruet Blanc De Blanc 750mL | Blanc de Blancs | 12% ABV | Chardonnay; lemon curd, chalk, fine mousse |
| Gruet Demi Sec 750mL | Demi Sec | 12% ABV | Off dry; ripe pear, honeyed edge, soft finish |
| Gruet Sauvage NV | Zero Dosage | 12% ABV | 100% Chardonnay, no added sugar; lean and steely |
| Gilbert Gruet Grande Reserve | Vintage Reserve | 12% ABV | Cellar select Chardonnay and Pinot Noir; deeper, lees driven |
Which Gruet is right for you?
Gruet Brut and Brut Rose sit at $15.99, which is the kind of number that makes people buy two. Blanc de Blanc and Demi Sec run $19.99, and both drink a step above the tag. The Sauvage and the Gilbert Gruet Grande Reserve come through in limited quantities, so ask us what landed. For a house pour, a wedding toast, or a Tuesday oyster, the math is simple: buy Gruet online or walk in and we will chill it for you.
Dry, toasty and $15.99, so opening a bottle on a Tuesday costs nothing.
All Pinot Noir, bright acid, holds up in a French 75 or Kir Royale.
Off dry with pear and honey, gentle enough for dessert and brunch crowds.