For years, the world of specialty coffee has drawn inspiration from the intricate characteristics of fine wines. Now, a fascinating reversal is underway, as the vibrant energy of coffee is infused into the refined elegance of sparkling wine. As temperatures rise, the allure of a crisp, refreshing bubbly is undeniable. But what if that delightful chill came with a sophisticated, caffeinated twist? The answer has arrived in the form of the innovative Panther Cuv\u00e9e, a limited-edition sparkling wine crafted with Panther Coffee's distinct blend.
The Panther Cuv\u00e9e is the brainchild of a unique partnership between Mawby, a renowned vineyard and winery nestled in Suttons Bay, Michigan, celebrated for its sparkling varietals, and Panther Coffee, a name synonymous with quality coffee, with a strong presence in Miami and a notable outpost in Traverse City, a mere thirty-minute journey from Mawby. This collaboration brings together the best of both worlds, bridging the gap between viticulture and coffee roasting.
This exceptional brut-style sparkling wine is a carefully curated blend of Leelanau Peninsula's finest Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Gris grapes, meticulously infused with Panther's signature Wonderland dark roast. The creation process involves tirage bottling and an extensive aging period of at least 24 months, followed by disgorgement and a final touch: a unique coffee-infused dosage. The resulting beverage boasts an 11% alcohol by volume, greeting the senses with enticing aromas of freshly roasted dark coffee beans, complemented by subtle undertones of vanilla, cocoa, ripe apricot, and tropical pineapple. Its bright acidity and lively effervescence lead to a smooth, substantial texture that envelops the palate with a pronounced coffee flavor, culminating in a lingering, coffee-forward finish.
The Panther Cuv\u00e9e is a true collector's item, with an extremely limited production of only 100 cases. These exclusive bottles are currently available for purchase directly through Mawby's official online platform. Whether this novel combination will delight every palate remains to be seen, as the fusion of coffee and sparkling wine is certainly an adventurous endeavor. While espresso and sparkling wine can be a delightful pairing, the direct infusion presents an intriguing and perhaps surprising taste profile. The only way to truly assess this innovative creation is to indulge in the experience firsthand. Priced at $20 per bottle, the Panther Cuv\u00e9e offers an accessible opportunity to explore this daring new frontier in beverages.