The Heart of Carneros, The Soul of Gloria Ferrer
Carneros Cuvée stands as the crown jewel of Gloria Ferrer, a sparkling wine that beautifully embodies the soul of Carneros. This exceptional creation represents the very culmination of over four decades of our dedicated sparkling winemaking expertise. Each release is a rare and extraordinary event, as Carneros Cuvée is produced only in those special vintages when everything aligns in perfect harmony: the unique rhythm of the season, the exceptional quality of the fruit, and our guiding vision for the wine.
A Love Letter to Time Itself
At its very core, Carneros Cuvée is a love letter to time. It is a wine meticulously crafted with patience and intention, allowed to quietly age for over a decade, and then released only when it has reached a perfect state of grace and complexity. This is not a wine made to meet a timeline; it is a wine that dictates its own. Our winemaking team releases it only when they unanimously agree it has achieved its fullest, most eloquent expression. Some vintages may rest peacefully for twenty years before they see the light of day, emerging transformed—nuanced, vibrant, and ready to share their remarkable story.
From Our Windswept Hills to Your Glass
The story of Carneros Cuvée begins in our estate vineyards, nestled in the windswept hills of Carneros. These were among the first vineyards in the region to be planted specifically for sparkling wine, and it is here that our sparkling legacy was born.
For Carneros Cuvée, only the most expressive parcels of fruit from the vintage are chosen. These exceptional grapes are night-harvested under the stars, a careful process that preserves their delicate aromatics and essential natural acidity. In the cellar, Chardonnay contributes its signature precision, bright energy, and luminosity to the blend, while Pinot Noir adds depth, structure, and a subtle, captivating richness. The final blend is always a delicate balance—a captivating conversation between the varietals, our unique soils, and the story of that particular season.
The Quiet Magic of Extended Aging
Once bottled, the journey of Carneros Cuvée continues in the cool, dark silence of our hillside caves. Here, the wine is left to rest en tirage for more than eight years, undisturbed and slowly evolving. This significant extended aging is what allows the wine to develop its signature complexity and luxurious texture. Imagine fine, persistent bubbles, a wonderfully creamy mousse, and layers upon layers of flavor that gracefully unfold with every sip.
An Unforgettable Tasting Experience
When you finally pour a glass of Carneros Cuvée, you’re greeted with enchanting notes of candied citrus peel, toasted almond, and freshly baked brioche. These inviting aromas give way to an elegant minerality on the palate, leading to a finish that lingers with remarkable finesse and sophistication. It’s an experience that engages all the senses and speaks of its careful, patient upbringing.
A Treasure for Life’s Most Glorious Moments
For dedicated collectors, discerning connoisseurs, and all who seek something truly extraordinary to mark life’s most meaningful moments, Carneros Cuvée resonates deeply. It captures the quiet power of patience and celebrates the beauty of meticulous craft. This wine stands as the ultimate expression of Gloria Ferrer’s enduring spirit, a heartfelt tribute to Carneros, and a beautiful promise that some things are indeed worth the wait.