Weekly Pour
Featuring a handpicked wine with tasting notes, pairing ideas, and a backstory.
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Perched on a sunlit hill at the gateway to Napa Valley, Domaine Carneros has been a sparkling jewel since its founding in 1987 by the Taittinger Champagne family. Inspired by the family's Chateau de la Marquetterie in Epernay, Domaine Carneros' marquis building mirrors that design. It has become a destination for méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines, elegant Pinot Noirs, and unforgettable hospitality.
Today, CEO Remi Cohen carries forward this original vision, blending French heritage with California spirit. "Our ethos at Domaine Carneros is to create the most memorable sparkling wine experience", she shares—a philosophy that infuses every bottle. I love the saying:
"Wine separates the people of the world; wine, unites them" - Thomas Jefferson
This sentiment perfectly captures the spirit of Local Wine Events. While geography may separate us, wine has the remarkable ability to bridge those distances and bring people together. Though it takes effort to travel to these incredible wine experiences, the journey is always rewarded. Whether attending a special curated wine and food pairing or experiencing a unique vineyard tour or intimate tasting, stories are exchanged, friendships are deepened, and memories are made.
A Sparkling Commitment to Sustainability
Domaine Carneros has long led the charge in sustainable winemaking, with certifications from Napa Green, the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance, and more. From solar microgrids and reclaimed water to composting and owl boxes in the vineyards, over 85% of winery waste is diverted from landfills. It’s a thoughtful balance of caring for the land, the wine, and the community.
This season, we’re raising a glass to the Cuvée de la Pompadour Brut Rosé, a sparkling beauty named for Madame de Pompadour, who famously declared that champagne is the only wine a woman can drink and remain beautiful.
Crafted from estate-grown Pinot Noir and Chardonnay and aged on the lees for a minimum of 24 months, the Pompadour is as graceful as it is complex. Expect aromas of strawberry, melon, and dried flowers, with a balance of fruit and finesse that makes it a standout for any table.
Perfect Pairings: triple cream brie, grilled salmon, pad Thai, or a fall cheese board with dried fruits and nuts. It’s the ideal wine to carry you from lingering summer evenings into cozy autumn gatherings.
Tasting Notes: The wine’s aroma, delivered on a delicate mousse, hints of strawberry, tangerine, orange blossom, marmalade, and potpourri. The palate displays peach, apricot, watermelon and a touch of underlining honey for a soft, delicate mouthfeel and a smooth, long finish. Despite its color, it is a true Brut – as dry as our other wines.
Technical Data:
The Team Behind the Sparkle
Every bottle reflects the dedication of winemakers Zak Miller (sparkling) and TJ Evans (Pinot Noir), alongside Director of Vineyard Operations Allison Wilson, who oversees more than 400 acres of estate vines. With meticulous attention to 23 Pinot Noir and 20 Chardonnay clones, they craft wines of true balance, character, and a distinct sense of place.
Zak Miller
Allison Wilson
There’s no better way to experience Domaine Carneros than in person. From château tastings to vineyard views, it’s a Napa experience unlike any other. Whether you’re celebrating harvest season, hosting friends, or simply enjoying a quiet evening, Domaine Carneros’ Cuvée de la Pompadour Brut Rosé is the perfect way to blush into fall.
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