Bernard-Massard sparkling wine in Luxembourg

When you think about great Mosel valley wines, you think of Germany, of course.  Having these world famous wines almost at our doorstep is a rare treat for the wine drinkers among us.  But did you know that Luxembourg also has a wine culture along the Moselle?  For years these wines have been sold locally or used by other winemakes in Germany or France for bulk wine.  But in the last century, the Luxmbourg wines have begun to make a name for themselves. 

Many of the wines here are Reislings, which you would expect, given how well these grapes do a bit further down the river in Germany, but the wines of Bernard-Massard more closely mirror the sparkling wines of Champagne.  

Bernard-Massard in Grevenmacher has been making sparkling wines here since 1921, and is now the largest producer of these wines in Luxembourg.  Their winery offers tours, which I didn't have an opportunity to try, as well as tastings of their range of wines in a very pleasant setting.  It's a great place to enjoy a sunny afternoon. 

Nice terrace overlooking the Mosel.

Each wine can be tasted individually, but I opted for the sample of the complete range of the bubblies, with a small glass of each of their five sparkling wines.  It makes it that much easier to pick your favorite!  If I remember correctly this was about 9 Euros. 

The range of sparkling wines

My favorite was the Cuvée de l'Ecusson Brut, which is a bit fuller and richer than the standard Brut.  The Ecusson Brut is made from Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Riesling, and Pinot Noir and aged for two years before release.  This wine is very similar to my favorite Champagne, but less than half the price and one quarter as far away to get it.  What's not to like about that ?! 

The company's web site (in English) is here.  Information on the range of wines, hours of operation, and tour details are easily found.  Another option is to check out the company's cellar in Trier, at Jakobstr 8 just off the main square. Their opening hours are a bit limited at this location, but the possibility of using a VAT form is something to check out.  I'll let you know... 

Another interesting option is a visit to the butterfly garden at the site in Grevenmacher, complete with a glass of wine (optional) for the adults.  It's open from 1 April to 15 October.  Check the website for details.  

The winery address is 8 Rue du Pont, 6773 Grevenmacher, Luxemburg.  Google maps says 46 minutes from Spang.