| Carneros is a relatively new growing area that produces high quality grapes and excels with varieties that require cool ripening conditions, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in particular. Carneros lies between the Napa and Sonoma county line. The landscape is rolling hills with not particularly fertile soil as compared to Napa Valley. The microclimate is clearly maritime in nature. The nearby Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay create the fog, wind, and moderate temperatures.
Trends and Things to Expect
Sparkling wines excel in Carneros. Look for Gloria Ferrer and Domaine Carneros who continue to receive rave reviews. The 1997 Pinot Noirs look to be dark and relatively tannic, but with excellent flavors.
|
Gloria Ferrer Winery
Gloria Ferrer is one of the most dynamic producers in Carneros. Their 1997 Chardonnay was voted one of “Wine Spectators” top 100 wines of 1999 (call for availability). This winery is well known for its sparkling wines but it also produces very good Pinot Noir and outstanding Chardonnay. Gloria Ferrer was founded by Jose Ferrer in the mid 1980’s and was the first sparkling house in the Carneros region. Jose named the vineyard after his wife and modeled his winery after buildings from his native Catalonia. Gloria Ferrer is part of the Freixenet Family and is one of the largest wine concerns in the world, and they should continue to spare no expense in producing top quality wines.| Producer | Varietal | Vintage | Price | Buy Now | | Gloria Ferrer | Sparkling/Champagne | | 17.99 | Details | | Gloria Ferrer | Chardonnay | 1998 | 18.99 | Details | | Gloria Ferrer | Pinot Noir | 1998 | 19.49 | Details |
|
