Feeling Fess-tive

Fess Parker, was an American film and television actor best known for his portrayals of Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone. After his acting career Parker devoted his life to his winery, Fess Parker Family Winery and Vineyards in Los Olivos, California. I recently visited the winery and The Bubble Shack to experience their newest addition, the Fesstivity collection of bubbly.

Tim Snider, president of the winery and son-in-law to Fess guided me through a tasting of their bubbles. Now in their second vintage, Tim explained that there were many reasons they decided to get into the bubbly game. For starters, Tim’s wife (Fess’ daughter) Ashley is a big fan of sparkling wine. Another reason was that the timing seemed right, in an area that specializes in premium Chardonnay and Pinot Noir there has been an increase in sparkling production throughout the Santa Barbara County and there was a need and a demand for it.

In 2014 the winery invested in all their own finishing equipment so all production could be done in house and méthode champenoise. They decided that Fesstivity was the perfect name for the bubbly as it honored Fess and suggests it’s the perfect pairing for festive events, celebrations and simply makes any day special once you pop a bottle.

During my visit I tasted three different styles within the Fesstivity collection. Tim began with their 2014 Blanc de Blancs, 100% Chardonnay from the Sta. Rita Hills…bright, crisp and refreshing. Next was their 2014 Brut Cuvée that was 60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay from the Sta. Rita Hills….croissant, brioche, rich and creamy. The final Fesstivity bubbles in the lineup was their 2014 Brut Rosé, 100% Pinot Noir from Sta. Rita Hills bursting with notes of peach, cardamom and rose petals. They are anticipating the release of their 2014 Blanc de Noirs, 90% Pinot Noir, 10% Chardonnay from the Sta. Rita Hills by early spring, if not sooner.

Written by Bridget Cheslock