Lienert Vineyards Tierra del Puerco Mata Hari Sparkling 2025

“Famed spy and femme fatale Mata Hari became in essence what would happen if the early 20th century accidentally invented espionage while trying to put on a slightly risqué dance recital, and then panicked about it.

Born Margaretha Zelle she reinvented herself with the confidence of someone who determined facts to be optional and mystery more marketable to become Mata Hari. In the process convincing half of Europe she was an exotic temple dancer, a dangerous spy –  or possibly both – before lunch.

Harvested in early February 2025, this wine consists mostly of Piquepoul with a small supporting cast of other whites to keep things interesting. Post fermentation time on lees in stainless steel adds texture, while Piquepoul provides naturally piquant acidity. The dosage was kept simple, contributing just enough sweetness for balance and a reassuring sense that everything is behaving as it should.

By means of carefully removing the muselet then the cork and tilting the bottle on a 90-degree angle, the contents will then find themselves in a well-placed glass. Repeat inclination with said glass in hand and aimed at open mouth, and you’ll experience a cascade of refreshing, effervescent wine based bubbly beverage flowing over your tongue, past your tonsils and onwards to your interior. Leaving you happy in the justification of an entirely meaningful exercise.

Mata Hari – god bless your dancing, spying cotton socks!”