Wine By Nine

Non-Vintage by Gloria Ferrer from Carneros, California. A distinctive blend of 92% Pinot and 8% Chardonnay, this light-bodied sparkling wine displays a slight pink color, resulting from a special pressing technique. Bright strawberry and black cherry aromas with subtle vanilla highlights. Creamy cherry, lemon and cola flavors combine with a lush palate, small, lively bubbles and a persistent finish. Our Blanc de Noirs is predominantly made from hand-harvested Pinot Noir grapes, the hallmarks of which are a vibrant red fruit character. The creamy palate and rosy hue are a result of a small addition of Vin Gris, which was blended into the base cuvee. Over forty different clones and selections of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are planted on our 340-acre estate in the Sonoma Carneros district. This allows us to consistently produce cuvees with complexity and clear fruit expression. Fresh bakery aromas of almond and caramel. Sweet and buttery with peach and honey flavors. Delicate, sweet finish with lingering notes of warm baguette, nutmeg and vanilla. -Wine News This bubbly charms with cherry and raspberry flavors and a touch of limes and vanilla. It's nice and smooth in the mouth, with a creamy mousse. Showing real finesse and elegance, this sparkler will be delicious with raw tuna. -Wine Enthusiast

Non-Vintage by Domaine Chandon from Carneros, California. This Carneros-designated Blanc de Noirs has a delicate copper color and fruit aromas of strawberry and cherry overlaid with warm cocoa from Pinot Noir. Its softer cousin Pinot Meunier contributes a warm spice, almost clove character with overtones of orange peel and freshly baked bread. To enhance this Cuvee 391, wines from the 1991 vintage were blended with selected 'vin de reserve' held back from previous years. 1991 was characterized by cool conditions during maturation and harvest, critical to flavor development for sparkling wine. Three years of aging lends this wine breadth and body, while retaining its freshness and fruitiness. The balance is stylishly crisp, reflecting the Carneros region's full ripe flavors. Light gold hue. Forward apple and ginger scents show a defined earthiness. Creamy flavors of orange, butternut, pecan and vanilla. Long close is round and smooth. -Wine News