Schramsberg Cremant

One of our “Twisted” Wine Classes was Bubbly Wines and Southern Comfort Food.

We had  Champagne, Cava, and Sparkling wines along with 2 kinds of Mac & Cheese, Fried Chicken, Buffalo Wings, Cornbread, Tater Tots, Deviled Eggs and Salted Caramel Crispy Treats…I think there was more, but I can’t remember. Let’s just say, no one went home hungry or thirsty.

I think the most memorable pairing for me, was a 2008 Schramsberg Cremant Demi Sec with the Salted Caramel Treats.

For those who are not familiar with Schramsberg, it is one of the premier Sparkling (it is outside of the Champagne region in France, so “Sparkling” is the proper term) Houses in the U.S. It has been served at many White House functions and it is a historic landmark in Napa Valley.

The Cremant style is creamy and Demi Sec is semi sweet (off dry) add the bubbles and you have a beautiful dessert wine that is not overly sweet with tasting notes of butter creme, pineapple, mango and I even think a bit of french toast.

It would pair well with fruit, gingerbread, creme brûlée and of course Salted Caramel.

Here is the recipe for the treats:

Ingredients
Nonstick spray
6 cups crispy rice cereal (about half a 12-ounce box), such as Rice Crispies
1 stick unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon light corn syrup
1 teaspoon flaky sea salt, such as Maldon, plus more for sprinkling
One 10-ounce bag mini marshmallows
Directions
Spray an 8-inch square cake pan with nonstick spray.

Add the cereal to a large heatproof bowl and set aside.

Add the butter to a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar, heavy whipping cream and corn syrup. Cook until thick and syrupy while stirring frequently, about 7 minutes. Stir in the salt. Turn off the heat and stir in the marshmallows. Keep stirring until the marshmallows are smooth and melted.

Quickly pour the caramel marshmallow sauce over the cereal and stir all together. Pour into the prepared pan and press down with a piece of parchment paper sprayed with nonstick spray. Sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt.

Cool completely, and then cut into squares.

Do yourself a favor and do this! Spend your money on this outstanding Sparkler ($38) and use the rest of your budget on an inexpensive yummy treat.

Cheers Y’all – Lori, Your Twisted Sommelier

*I would like to Thank “Twisted Peep” Tiffany for bringing this fun dessert! It really made my evening.