Since November 2005 we also have sparkling wines for sale.
Our very first is the “Zwarte Parel” (BLACK PEARL) from the year 2003.
In 1993, the ‘Kiezelingenbos’ was planted with a special variety of Chardonnay plants, which are exceptionally well suited for the making of Sparkling wines. Already then it was our intention to produce a sparkling wine, once the vineyards were ten years old. Therefore in 2003 we had our first harvest with the intention of making a sparkling wine. Of this sparkling wine we have two varieties for sale: the “Zwarte Parel Brut” and the “Zilveren Parel Brut”.
In 2009 and 2010, this vineyard was extended to 11.5ha with both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vines. From 2011 onwards, this vineyard will also produce Rose Parel (sparkling wine).
The basis wine is made in the same manner as the still wines. During the bottling both sugar and yeast are added, so that a fermentation can occur in the bottle. Through this fermentation, carbon dioxide is created in the bottle at a pressure up to 6 Bar.
The sugar is transformed into alcohol, a process which ends once all the sugars have been fermented. Through this process a sparkling wine is created, but also a sediment within the bottle. The wine ripens on this sediment, which has a very positive influence. According to the “Méthode Traditionnelle”, the wine must ripen with the sediment for at least 9 months.
All three Pearl’s meet these strict rules. The “Rose Parel” ripens 9 months and the “Zwarte Parel” (Black Pearl), from the rust free barrels, ripens 18 months in the bottle, whiles the “Zilveren Parel” (Zilver Pearl) from the wooden barrels, ripens 36 months in the bottle. After this follows the “remuage” and the disgorging. During this process the bottles are turned regularly a quarter turn, until they are finally standing on their head after approximately five days. This way, the sediment slowly moves down the bottle neck towards the opening.
The process in which the sediment is removed is called “dégorgement”. The neck of the bottle is placed in a liquid with a temperature of about -40°C, therefore freezing the upper part of the wine in the bottle neck which includes the sediment. With the help of a special machine, this ice block is removed together with the coronet cap. Then the bottle receives its final cork and the sparkling wine rests for at least another three months, prior to being sold.
Black Pearl Brut
Black Pearl Brut
€18,90
Bright pale yellow with glimmers of green. A springtime bouquet, the freshness of mineral nuances and white flowers and the intensity of green apple and citrus fruit. A lively palate distinguished by its bright fruitiness and the finesse and elegance of Chardonnay. Balanced with a polished acidity for a long and refreshing finish.
Can be served throughout the year, from a summer aperitif to a winter midnight toast, pairs perfectly with sushi, scallops, oysters, white fish and white meats such as roasted free range chicken.
All our wines are bottled and disgorged at the Castle and are for sale as supplies last.
Silver Pearl Brut
Silver Pearl Brut
€28,20
Bright golden yellow and fine dynamic bead. An intense bouquet, initial floral notes, following are notes of just-ripe stone fruits and completed by gentle scents of brioche and almonds. A generous palate with vinous expression and seductive by its elegant complex maturity with a delicate touch of oak and the finesse of Chardonnay. The alluring caress of very fine ‘pearls’ (bubbles).
Can be served throughout the meal, from aperitif to dessert and pairs perfectly with smoked fish, scallops, strong-flavoured fish, white meats such as braised poultry, white fruits such as a white peach tart, white chocolate and toasted nuts.
All our wines are bottled and disgorged at the Castle and are for sale as supplies last.
Pink Pearl Brut
Pink Pearl Brut
€21,50
A gleaming color, vivid pink with golden highlights. Created in 2006, spontaneous, radiant and romantic expression. A vibrant, fruity bouquet, mainly scents of fragrant red berries and nuances of rose. An expressive palate combining intensity and suppleness. The intense fruitiness of Pinot Noir and the refreshing elegance of Chardonnay.
Can be served throughout the day, from brunch to an afternoon terrace to dessert and pairs perfectly with fresh cheese, duck, fresh game and pastry.
All our wines are bottled and disgorged at the Castle and are for sale as supplies last.
The Pearl 08
The Pearl 08
€108,00
“THE PEARL 08”
Is the culmination of 25 years of thriving for excellence both in the vineyards and in the wine cellar to achieve the perfectly balanced Méthode Traditionnelle. The taste reveals a generous palate with vinous expressions and is seductive by its elegant complex maturity with a delicate touch of oak and the finesse of Chardonnay. The aromas are enhanced by its exceptionally long maturation that has created very fine “Pearls”.
The bottle may be served from aperitif to dessert and pairs perfectly with fish and white meats as well as dark chocolate. Our exceptional 2008 vintage has already won a Gold medal for “Best Belgian Wine”, a Gold medal and the best wine of the “Holland – Belgium” contest and a Gold medal at the “Concours Mondial”.
The vineyards are cultivated, the grapes are selected and the entire vinification takes place at Wijnkasteel Genoels-Elderen. Bottling, disgorging and packaging is done in our castle cellars.
Proud to be:
“Made in Belgium”All our wines are bottled and disgorged at the Castle and are for sale as supplies last.
