Winemaker Notes

Gruet Le Spritz Le FleuristeLe Fleuriste balances the infusion of elderflower, the essence of sun-ripened lemons, smooth notes of honey and wild roses, and cool flavors of spearmint. Drink on its own for a moment of joie de vivre or pair this refreshing spritz with caprese salad, fresh ceviche, or whipped goat cheese topped with honey. Our Le Spritz wine cocktails are crafted with the same passion and savoir-faire that has made our Gruet sparkling wines for over 30 years. Each bottle offers a refreshing escape with vibrant effervescence.

Winery Notes

He grew up in a poor family, and began working at a young age. In 1952, Gilbert Gruet, along with his wife Danielle, dreamt of producing fine quality Champagne. Gilbert followed his heart and in 1967 created the U.V.C.B. (Union Vinicole des Coteaux de Bethon), a co-op in the village of Bethon.

In 1983, the Gruet Family was traveling through the southwestern part of the US, and while in New Mexico met a group of European winemakers who had successfully planted vineyards in Engle, near the town of Truth or Consequences, 170 miles south of the city of Albuquerque. After hearing of vineyards planted there as early as the 1600s, and learning about the specific climate and soil conditions of the region, the Gruet Family knew they had found what they were looking for. In 1984, Gilbert Gruet – whose Champagne house (Gruet et Fils) has produced fine Champagnes in Bethon, France since 1952 – made the decision to plant an experimental vineyard in Engle, NM. The plantings were exclusively Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. Two of his four children, Laurent and Nathalie Gruet then relocated to New Mexico to begin their American winemaking adventure.