Windsor Run Cellars

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The Life Cycle of Traditional-Method Sparkling Wine • Part 4 of 8The journey from grape to sparkling wine continues. In ...
08/24/2026

The Life Cycle of Traditional-Method Sparkling Wine • Part 4 of 8

The journey from grape to sparkling wine continues. In Part 4, the still base wine receives its tirage, a carefully measured addition of yeast and sugar before the bottle is sealed. This simple step begins a remarkable transformation, creating the natural bubbles that define traditional-method sparkling wine.

As the yeast consumes the sugar, carbon dioxide is produced and trapped inside the bottle, creating pressure and forming the fine, elegant bubbles that make every glass sparkle.

Next up: Aging on the Lees.

The Life Cycle of Traditional-Method Sparkling Wine • Part 3 of 8The journey from grape to sparkling wine continues. In ...
08/17/2026

The Life Cycle of Traditional-Method Sparkling Wine • Part 3 of 8

The journey from grape to sparkling wine continues. In Part 3, the base wines are carefully evaluated and blended to create the cuvée. This is where the winemaker balances acidity, aroma, flavor, and structure to establish the style and character of the finished sparkling wine.

A well-crafted cuvée lays the foundation for everything that follows, ensuring consistency, complexity, and elegance before the wine begins its second fermentation in the bottle.

Next up: Tirage: Where the Bubbles Begin.

The Life Cycle of Traditional-Method Sparkling Wine • Part 2 of 8The journey from grape to sparkling wine continues. In ...
08/10/2026

The Life Cycle of Traditional-Method Sparkling Wine • Part 2 of 8

The journey from grape to sparkling wine continues. In Part 2, freshly harvested grapes are gently crushed and pressed before beginning their first fermentation, transforming sweet grape juice into a clean, dry base wine.

Every decision during this stage helps preserve the wine's freshness, delicate aromas, and bright acidity, creating the foundation for the bubbles and complexity that develop later through the traditional method.

Next up: Building the Cuvée.

The Life Cycle of Traditional-Method Sparkling Wine • Part 1 of 8Every bottle of traditional-method sparkling wine begin...
08/03/2026

The Life Cycle of Traditional-Method Sparkling Wine • Part 1 of 8

Every bottle of traditional-method sparkling wine begins long before the bubbles. In Part 1, we're heading into the vineyard to see why sparkling wine grapes are harvested earlier than those intended for still wines.

Picking at the right moment preserves the bright acidity and freshness that give premium sparkling wines their elegance and longevity. It's the first decision in a process that can take years before the wine is finally poured into your glass.

Next up: Crush, Press & First Fermentation.

Four Ways to Make Sparkling Wine • Part 4 of 4Not all sparkling wines are made the same. Today we're exploring Pétillant...
07/27/2026

Four Ways to Make Sparkling Wine • Part 4 of 4

Not all sparkling wines are made the same. Today we're exploring Pétillant Naturel (Pét-Nat), one of the oldest methods of making sparkling wine, where the wine is bottled before its first fermentation is complete and finishes fermenting naturally in the bottle. The result is often fresh, vibrant, and uniquely expressive, with every bottle reflecting its own personality.

While Windsor Run Cellars doesn't currently produce a Pét-Nat in it’s own brand, one of our winemakers, Elizabeth Higley, enjoys crafting small batches as a passion project. Sales from her wine goes to support her Women in Wine Scholarship for Surry Community College’s Viticulture and Enology Program. It's a great example of the curiosity and craftsmanship that drives innovation in the cellar and the community.

Which of these four sparkling wine methods surprised you the most?

Four Ways to Make Sparkling Wine • Part 3 of 4Not all sparkling wines are made the same. Today we're exploring Force Car...
07/20/2026

Four Ways to Make Sparkling Wine • Part 3 of 4

Not all sparkling wines are made the same. Today we're exploring Force Carbonation, where carbon dioxide is added directly to finished wine under pressure to create crisp, refreshing bubbles. This efficient method highlights bright fruit flavors and freshness, making it ideal for easy-drinking sparkling wines.

At Shadow Springs Vineyard, our Sparkles sparkling wine is crafted using this method, resulting in a lively, fruit-forward wine that's perfect for celebrations or simply enjoying on a warm afternoon.

Which sparkling wine style would you most like to try?

Four Ways to Make Sparkling Wine • Part 2 of 4Not all sparkling wines are made the same. Today we're exploring the Charm...
07/13/2026

Four Ways to Make Sparkling Wine • Part 2 of 4

Not all sparkling wines are made the same. Today we're exploring the Charmat Method (Tank Method), where the second fermentation takes place in a large pressurized tank instead of individual bottles. This process preserves bright fruit flavors, fresh aromas, and lively bubbles, making it the signature method behind wines like Prosecco.

While Windsor Run Cellars primarily crafts sparkling wines using the Traditional Method, understanding the Charmat Method helps showcase the different styles and techniques found throughout the world of sparkling wine.

Which sparkling wine style would you most like to try?

📚 Just a reminder! Our Local Author Book Signing is happening this Sunday at Windsor Run Cellars.Stop by between 1:00–5:...
07/09/2026

📚 Just a reminder! Our Local Author Book Signing is happening this Sunday at Windsor Run Cellars.

Stop by between 1:00–5:00 PM to meet local authors Mandy Casto and T.L. Combs, browse their books, and have your favorites signed while enjoying a glass of wine.

Bring a friend and spend the afternoon supporting local authors and local wine. We look forward to seeing you!

📍 Windsor Run Cellars
🗓 Sunday, July 12
⏰ 1:00–5:00 PM

Four Ways to Make Sparkling Wine • Part 1 of 4Not all sparkling wines are made the same. Today we're exploring the Tradi...
07/06/2026

Four Ways to Make Sparkling Wine • Part 1 of 4

Not all sparkling wines are made the same. Today we're exploring the Traditional Method (Méthode Champenoise), where a second fermentation takes place inside each bottle to create naturally elegant bubbles and the rich brioche and toasted notes found in many of the world's finest sparkling wines.

This is the method used for most of Windsor Run Cellars' sparkling wines, and one of the reasons we're committed to investing in traditional sparkling wine production.

Which style of sparkling wine would you like to learn more about?

📚🍷 Join us for a special afternoon celebrating local authors!On Sunday, July 12, from 1:00–5:00 PM, we're excited to wel...
07/05/2026

📚🍷 Join us for a special afternoon celebrating local authors!

On Sunday, July 12, from 1:00–5:00 PM, we're excited to welcome Mandy Casto and T.L. Combs to Windsor Run Cellars for a book signing and meet-and-greet.

Browse their books, chat with the authors, have your copies signed, and enjoy an afternoon of great wine and great stories. Whether you're a longtime reader or simply looking for something fun to do, we'd love to see you!

📍 Windsor Run Cellars
🗓 Sunday, July 12
⏰ 1:00–5:00 PM

Address

6531 Windsor Road
Hamptonville, NC
27020

Opening Hours

Wednesday 10am - 5pm
Thursday 10am - 5pm
Friday 10am - 5pm
Saturday 10am - 5pm
Sunday 1pm - 5pm

Telephone

+13364688400

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