Thomson and Scott are a dedicated non-alcoholic wine producer, part of the growing movement of boutique winemakers focusing solely on alcohol-free wines. This trend is particularly promising for consumers as it signals a commitment to refining the process of de-alcoholisation, resulting in more sophisticated and well-rounded products over time. Their Noughty Sparkling Chardonnay is their flagship varietal.
It has garnered significant praise, notably being voted USA TODAY Readers’ Choice Award for Best Non-Alcoholic Wine in 2023.
While I can’t speak to the demographics of the voters, this is still a noteworthy endorsement, indicating it has struck a chord with consumers. But how does it stand up in a glass? Let’s break it down.
Appearance
When you pour Thomson and Scott’s Noughty Sparkling Chardonnay, it pours a beautiful pale golden hue, typical of a well-made Chardonnay. There’s an immediate visual appeal – it’s almost as if it gleams in the glass. The effervescence is fine and consistent, with delicate bubbles rising in steady streams. While some non-alcoholic wines can sometimes look flat or lacklustre, that’s not the case here. The bubbles add an air of sophistication, giving the wine a celebratory look that would easily stand its ground alongside any sparkling wine. For those who value presentation, this sparkling Chardonnay certainly ticks the right boxes.
Aroma
The nose of the Noughty Sparkling Chardonnay is inviting, with the bright and fresh aroma of green apples hitting you first. This is followed by a gentle wave of citrus zest and a touch of peach that adds some fruity depth. There’s a subtlety to the aromas – none of the notes overpower each other, instead they work together to create a balanced bouquet. While it may not have the intricate complexity of high-end traditional sparklers, for a non-alcoholic offering, it’s surprisingly refined. What I also liked is that the absence of alcohol doesn’t seem to detract much from the aromatic experience; it remains fresh, clean, and genuinely enjoyable.
Taste
On the palate, the Noughty Sparkling Chardonnay offers a refreshing burst of crisp green apple and zesty citrus, underpinned by faint hints of tropical fruits like pineapple and mango. The balance between acidity and fruit is well-handled, delivering a profile that is both bright and satisfying. You won’t get the same depth or richness that alcohol typically brings to a sparkling wine, but Thomson and Scott have managed to create something nuanced enough to keep your interest. There’s a gentle complexity here that feels light and airy rather than rich or weighty, making it an ideal option for casual sipping on a warm day. For a non-alcoholic sparkling wine, it holds its own remarkably well.
Mouthfeel
The effervescence is lively yet controlled, giving the wine a pleasant and sprightly texture without overwhelming the mouth. Many non-alcoholic sparkling wines struggle with either being too flat or too aggressively carbonated, but Noughty manages to strike a nice balance. The bubbles are fine and elegant, contributing to a light and smooth mouthfeel. It doesn’t feel overly thin, which is sometimes a challenge for non-alcoholic wines that can lack the viscosity of their alcoholic counterparts. While it’s undoubtedly lighter than a traditional sparkling Chardonnay, the mouthfeel is still quite satisfying, offering a refreshing sip that feels clean and well-rounded.
Finish
As for the finish, it’s crisp and refreshing, though perhaps a little shorter than some might hope for. Traditional sparkling wines often have a lingering complexity in their finish, with layers of flavour that evolve over time. In this case, the finish is more straightforward, with the citrus and green apple notes fading out fairly quickly. However, this clean finish is also part of the wine’s appeal, especially if you’re looking for something light and invigorating. It doesn’t leave any heavy aftertaste or cloying sweetness, which is often a risk with NA wines. It’s a finish that makes you want to take another sip, so it works well for the style.
Pairing Suggestions
The Noughty Sparkling Chardonnay is versatile enough to work across a range of occasions, but I think it would shine particularly well as an aperitif, where its lightness and effervescence can really come to the fore. It’s the kind of drink that you can easily imagine sipping at a picnic, especially when paired with fresh, summery dishes. A goat’s cheese salad with crisp greens and tangy vinaigrette would be an excellent match, as the wine’s acidity would cut through the richness of the cheese. Its citrus notes also make it a great companion for seafood, such as grilled shrimp or pan-seared scallops. Even dishes with a bit of creaminess, like a Caesar salad or a seafood pasta, would benefit from the wine’s refreshing acidity. For dessert, consider pairing it with a light fruit tart – the wine’s clean finish will balance the sweetness beautifully.
Overall Impression
Thomson and Scott’s Noughty Sparkling Chardonnay really does set a benchmark for non-alcoholic sparkling wines. From its refined appearance to its clean and crisp flavour profile, it delivers much of what you’d expect from a traditional sparkling Chardonnay, albeit in a lighter, alcohol-free form. Sure, it doesn’t have the length or complexity of a top-tier alcoholic sparkling, but it holds its own in the non-alcoholic category with grace and charm. The crisp green apple and citrus flavours make it perfect for casual sipping or food pairing, and the lively bubbles give it a celebratory feel that’s hard to resist. For those seeking a sophisticated alcohol-free option that doesn’t compromise on taste, I’d say the readers of USA TODAY might just be onto something.