Ukrainian Wine – German Name

Q: Why does a sparkling wine from Ukraine have a German name?

A: Because Krimsekt is one of the most popular sparkling wines in Germany and the winery’s number one export market. Over 1.2 million bottles are shipped to Germany every year. In fact, Germans have been drinking millions of bottles of Krimsekt bubbly since 1972!

These exotic beauties are made from grapes grown on the storied Crimean peninsula, now a part of Southern Ukraine. Crimea offers superb soil and one of the finest growing climates in the world.

The wines are crafted by the Artyomovske Champagne winery, reputed to be the best in Central and Eastern Europe. The entire winery and cellars are underground, in a 25 hectare complex which was once a gypsum mine. Just like the chalk caves of Champagne, these deep caverns keep temperature and humidity perfect year-round. All Krimsekt wines are double-fermented, which produces carbonation in a natural way. This is the same method used by the finest French Champagne houses.

Many wineries claim to use this method but few age and double ferment their wines as long as Krimsekt, over 3 years for whites and 16 months for reds.

Q: Where can I buy them?

For the first time ever, Krimsekt Red Semi-Sweet sparkling wines are available in limited quantities and in select LCBO stores in Ontario. This is the same product that is exported to Germany, with only the label being different to comply with Ontario regulations. Red Semi-Sweet (2008) is a deep, red bubbly, perfect for dessert dishes, cheese, nuts, chocolate, ice-cream and fruits. White Brut (2006) has been available at the LCBO for several years now and is a traditional champagne-style white which is made less tart than champagne through the addition of Riesling grapes.

Q: How do I know which LCBO stores will have them?

Go on-line to www.lcbo.com and do a product search for "Krimsekt". Click on the White Brut or Red Semi-Sweet and then select "Find Stores". It will list out the stores that carry it and what quantities are available.

Q: Where will it be in the store?

It could be in one of 2 places. In the Vintages section or the sparkling wine section. Ask the store personnel to locate it for you by referencing product #141655 for the Red Semi-Sweet and #621839 for the White Brut.