This is a joint venture between Champagne Taittinger and Kobrand Corporation, partners who are perfectionists in their fields. Since its inception in 1987, Domaine Carneros established itself as one of California's finest producers of premium quality, methode traditionelle sparkling wines. The inspiration for Domaine Carneros belongs to Champagne Taittinger. The first glimmerings of the concept were shaped in the mind of Claude Taittinger in 1947. The 138-acre estate is situated in the Carneros appellation of Northern California, a 36,900-acre viticultural area, which straddles the border between the Napa and Sonoma counties at their southern extremity. The estate's vineyards extend up a slope rising to a crest overlooking San Francisco and San Pablo Bay, with an elevation of 120 to 260 feet above sea level. In 1987, the Taittinger family selected Eileen Crane as Domaine Carneros’ founding winemaker. While directing the first vintage, she was also tasked with overseeing the planning and construction of the winery. Today, the future direction of the estate is under the expert guidance of Remi Cohen.

The Domaine Carneros Cuvée de la Pompadour Brut Rosé celebrates the life and times of Madame de Pompadour (the great courtesan and mistress of Louis XV) who is credited with introducing Champagne to the court and was an influential tastemaker in the matters of art, architecture, and philosophy. She is famous for her comment, "Champagne is the only wine a woman can drink and remain beautiful." A blend of 58% Pinot Noir and 42% Chardonnay. The lovely bubbles sparkle as they rise to the top of the glass. The aromas are lively with a yeasty richness, brioche, fresh cut strawberries, a hint of almond, and minerality. Medium-bodied, rich creamy texture, slightly more weighted that finishes with a sweet spiciness that is full, long along with an utterly delicious mouth-feel. The Cuvée de la Pompadour Brut Rosé is a pleaser at gatherings for any occasion and will work beautifully as an apéritif. The winemaking team at Domaine Carneros continues to produce impressive wines, raising the bar for quality year after year!

By Perry Miroballi