Domaine Carneros, Napa

Domaine Carneros, nestled in the Carneros AVA of Napa Valley, is an esteemed winery best known for its sparkling wines and Pinot Noir. Founded in 1987 by the Champagne Taittinger family, this elegant estate was established to bring the traditions of méthode traditionnelle winemaking to California’s premier cool-climate vineyards. The winery is situated on a stunning 400-acre estate, with 250 acres dedicated to Pinot Noir and 150 acres to Chardonnay, ensuring that all wines are produced using estate-grown fruit. Domaine Carneros is one of the few grower-producers in Napa Valley, maintaining complete control over the winemaking process, from vineyard management to bottling, ensuring the highest standards of quality.

At the heart of Domaine Carneros is its iconic Château, an architectural masterpiece modeled after Château de la Marquetterie in Epernay, France, the historic home of Champagne Taittinger. Perched atop a knoll with panoramic vineyard views, the Château embodies French elegance in Napa Valley, offering visitors a refined and immersive tasting experience.

Guests can enjoy luxury wine tastings with tableside service, either outdoors on the expansive terrace or in the beautifully appointed tasting salon. The winery specializes in vintage-dated Brut cuvées, including Le Rêve Blanc de Blancs, a prestigious sparkling wine that rivals the finest Champagnes. In 1992, Domaine Carneros expanded its portfolio to include Pinot Noir, further showcasing the distinct terroir of Carneros.

Guests can explore the estate through private tours, wine and food pairings, and educational tastings designed to enhance appreciation for Carneros’ terroir and winemaking heritage. The winery continues its tradition of visionary female leadership, with Remi Cohen succeeding Eileen Crane as CEO in 2020, ensuring that the Taittinger legacy of excellence endures.