Domaine Chandon, producers of sparkling wines in Napa Valley, is celebrating its 40th anniversary. In honor of the occasion, we tasted through their bubbly offerings and are happy to report that 40 suits them well. The winery makes two lines of sparklers. The Chandon label, with a California appellation and $22 suggested retail price, includes Chandon Brut Classic, with its bready apple aroma, lively mousse and vibrant flavor; Chandon Blanc de Noirs, with lovely creamy texture and bright notes of Rainier cherries; Chandon Rosé, full of strawberry notes and vanilla underpinnings; and Chandon Extra Dry-Riche, with its elegant floral notes and gentle hints of Mandarin orange.
The Domaine Chandon étoile line, made from Napa and Sonoma grapes, includes Domaine Chandon étoile Brut ($40), with fresh, insistent mousse and vibrant fruit; Domaine Chandon étoile Rosé ($50), delicately nutty with notes of fresh brioche and tart strawberries; and Domaine Chandon étoile Tête de Cuvée, 2003 ($100), a lush, elegant wine aged 10 years and just released. The epitome of Chandon’s excellence.
Prices may vary.
