Bisson : Abissi Spumante Classico Brut 2010

Pale, golden yellow, the Bisson Abissi is an entirely unique sparkling wine made in the Champagne method with one significant twist. Bianchetta and Vermentino grapes are harvested and undergo their initial fermentation and then bottled, but while a traditional Champagne method wine would then age in a cellar, the Abissi is loaded into metal cages and aged on the floor of the Mediterranean off the Ligurian coast. The sea proivdes an ideal aging environment at a steady temperature and without interference from light. Plus, Lugano contends that the gentle rocking motion of the water helps to activate the yeasts in the bottle, lending a greater richness to each bottle of Abissi. Given Liguria's connection to the seaside, aging the Bisson Abissi in the sea works wonderfully as a metaphor as well of course.