In the heart of the cool, southern Carneros wine region, where morning fog from San Francisco Bay drifts across the vineyards, stands Domaine Carneros, one of Napa Valley’s most distinctive wine estates.
Founded in 1987 by the renowned Taittinger family of Champagne, France, the winery was created with a clear vision: to combine generations of French expertise in producing sparkling wine using the traditional method with the exceptional fruit and distinctive growing conditions of California.
Carneros was carefully selected for its cool climate, particularly well suited to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, the two grape varieties at the heart of Domaine Carneros’ sparkling wine production.
A French Château in California
What makes Domaine Carneros especially memorable is its remarkable visual presence.
The winery was designed in the style of a classic 18th-century French château, inspired by Château de la Marquetterie, the historic Taittinger family estate in Champagne.
A grand, sweeping staircase leads visitors toward an expansive terrace overlooking formal gardens, elegant fountains and panoramic views of vineyard rows rolling gently across the surrounding hills.
The architecture creates an unmistakably European sense of grandeur, yet the atmosphere remains relaxed and unmistakably Californian. This combination of French elegance, Napa Valley scenery and wine culture makes a visit to Domaine Carneros a memorable experience in its own right.
Le Rêve Blanc de Blancs – “The Dream”
The estate’s internationally acclaimed prestige sparkling wine is Le Rêve Blanc de Blancs – Le Rêve meaning “The Dream” in French.
Produced from 100% Chardonnay, Le Rêve is regarded as one of the leading luxury sparkling wines produced in the United States.
In the glass, it displays a fine and persistent stream of bubbles, accompanied by aromas of freshly baked brioche, white flowers, candied lemon peel and toasted almonds.
The palate is rich and creamy, balanced by crisp acidity and flavors of green apple and honey. A remarkably long, mineral-driven finish adds elegance and complexity.
Combining California fruit with a winemaking philosophy rooted in Champagne, Le Rêve Blanc de Blancs embodies the distinctive character of Domaine Carneros – French heritage interpreted through the terroir of Napa Valley.
