Cumulus 'bubbles' hits high note, twelve years on from first vintage

As they say ‘it’s been a long time between drinks’ but the outcome is expected to be a sell out for the 2012 vintage of Alpha Domus’ AD Cumulus Blanc du Blancs Methode Traditionelle.

Alpha Domus managing director Paul Ham said the single estate winery in Bridge Pa, Hawke’s Bay resurrected its hand-made Cumulus “bubbles” twelve  years on from its first vintage thanks to a resident French cellar hand in 2012.

Julien Aubrey, who had previously worked at some of the leading Champagne houses in France, was a cellar hand at Alpha Domus and offered to assist wine maker Kate Galloway to produce the latest version of Cumulus.

“We always wanted to have another go at making a bubbles and when Julien arrived, the timing was perfect and we’re now very excited about what the 2012 Cumulus offers.

“It’s a very special version as the entire creation has been made at the winery. It’s never been off-site and to continue its uniqueness, it will only be sold from our cellar door and website.

The AD Cumulus Methode Traditionelle is an elegant dry style, boasts a nice fine bead with subtle aromas of green apple, brioche, hazelnut and a crisp citrus finish.

The latest version of Cumulus is already in hot demand, following a recent sneak tasting preview and early feedback has been very promising.

“Those fortunate enough to taste Cumulus, were surprised by the high quality of the bead and the flavor. It was a very popular drinking choice over the weekend.

‘This is the perfect drink for the festive season and will go well on its own, with summer canapés, or to end the evening,” Paul said.

Like all Alpha Domus wines, Cumulus looks towards the sky for its name. Alpha Domus wine names have an aeronautical theme, as the winery is close to the Hastings Aerodrome and often has vintage aircraft flying above. 

Cumulus clouds are also synonymous of the Bridge Pa area and are taken advantage of by local glider planes. 

Alpha Domus is releasing just 2400 bottles of Cumulus. It is available from the cellar door and www.alphadomus.co.nz for $34.00 per bottle.