The Ferrer's came to Sonoma County in the early 1980s and visited a cattle ranch in the cool climate of the Carneros region with the idea of opening it as the future home of Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards. This ranch became the first Carneros Sparkling Wine House. The ranch was purchased in 1982 and by 1986 construction on the winery was complete. Jose Ferrer's family had been winegrowers in Spain since the 1500s and building this California winery was a lifelong dream for him. The Ferrer's family focused winery and their progressive sustainable farming make them another great winery to feature on the girl & the fig's wine list.
From the website, "We cultivate fruit for our premium quality sparkling and still wines in our 335 acres of Sonoma Carneros estate vineyards. Here, the climate is defined by warm days, cool nights, summer fog and a long growing season that coaxes grapes to maturity slowly and consistently, with balanced sugar and acidity. Our Vineyard Manager Mike Crumly and Winemaker Bob Iantosca, both of whom have worked for Gloria Ferrer from its inception, have devoted more than two decades to identifying the diverse soil types, microclimates and specific needs of every vine in their care... The Royal Cuvee is a prestige bottling that showcases the superb quality of the grapes from on our estate vineyard. Made only from the first pressing of grapes hand picked from our vineyards, this classic Brut blend of two-thirds Pinot Noir and one-third Chardonnay offers the delicacy and exuberance of perfectly ripe fruit well integrated with mature complexities derived from over five years aging on the yeast".
Tasting Notes:
This medium bodied sparkling wine features 67% Pinot Noir and 33% Chardonnay grapes. With aromas of citrus, ripe red apple, spice, toast, cherry, and a hint of graphite, it pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. From simple treats like toasted almonds, Brie cheese or aged Gouda to foods like fried calamari, seared scallops, smoked fish, steamed mussels, BBQ pork and even a simple dish like chicken, this sparkling wine is the perfect accompaniment.
"Gloria Ferrer reliably produces some of California's best sparkling wines, from the fruit-forward blanc de noirs to the richly structured Carneros Cuvee. On a warm day, step out onto the terrace of the visitor's center as you sip your bubble or on of the winery's Pinot Noirs or Chardonays..." -Wine Spectator, Travel to California Wine Country, June 2008
