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Domaine Carneros: A Sparkling Jewel in Napa

Experience the elegance of a French-inspired château in Napa Valley, where méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines and estate-grown Pinot Noir offer a taste of luxury and breathtaking vineyard views.

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Domaine Carneros, founded by Champagne Taittinger, is a breathtaking château and winery specializing in méthode traditionnelle sparkling wine and Pinot Noir. Modeled after the Château de la Marquetterie in France, the estate offers stunning views of the Carneros region. Visitors can enjoy seated tastings on the terrace or in the elegant salon, paired with artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, or caviar. With a focus on sustainability and quality, Domaine Carneros provides a luxurious and memorable wine country experience. Reservations are required, and all visitors must be 21 or older. It's a perfect spot to begin or end a day of wine tasting, offering a touch of French elegance in the heart of Napa Valley.

A brief summary to Domaine Carneros

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Book your tasting in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and seating, as reservations are required.
  • Arrive early in the day or during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed tasting experience.
  • Consider the food and wine pairing options to enhance your tasting with local cheeses, charcuterie, or caviar.
  • Request a table on the terrace for stunning views of the vineyards, weather permitting.
  • If you have mobility concerns, use the upper-level parking lot to avoid the grand staircase.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Domaine Carneros is located at 1240 Duhig Road, Napa, CA 94559, situated between the city of Napa and the town of Sonoma. From downtown Napa, take CA-121/CA-12 W towards Sonoma. Duhig Road will be on your left in approximately 4 miles. Turn left onto Duhig Road, and Domaine Carneros will be on your right. Parking is available on-site. Be aware that there are two parking lots; the lower lot requires climbing a steep set of stairs to reach the chateau. An upper parking lot with stair-free access is available if you drive around to the left side of the building. Parking is free.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown Napa, a taxi or ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to Domaine Carneros will cost approximately $25-$40 and take about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare and availability with the driver or app before you begin your trip. Keep in mind that prices may surge during peak hours or special events. There is no charge for drop-off or pick-up at the winery.

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Discover more about Domaine Carneros

Domaine Carneros stands as a beacon of elegance and sparkling wine excellence in the Carneros region of Napa Valley. Founded in 1987 by Champagne Taittinger, the estate was envisioned as a New World counterpart to the esteemed French champagne house. Claude Taittinger himself selected the 138-acre parcel, recognizing the Carneros appellation's potential for producing exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes – the cornerstones of fine sparkling wine. The architectural centerpiece of Domaine Carneros is its magnificent château, a faithful replica of the Château de la Marquetterie, the Taittinger family's historic estate in Champagne, France. Completed in 1989, the château exudes old-world charm and sophistication, making it a landmark in the Napa landscape. Visitors are greeted by a grand staircase, formal gardens, and expansive terraces that offer panoramic views of the rolling vineyards. Domaine Carneros is renowned for its méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines, crafted with the same meticulous attention to detail as its French counterparts. The winery produces a range of distinctive styles, from the classic vintage-dated Brut Cuvée to the luxurious Le Rêve Blanc de Blancs, a tête-de-cuvée made exclusively from estate-grown Chardonnay. In 1992, Domaine Carneros expanded its portfolio to include Pinot Noir, showcasing the versatility of the Carneros appellation. All wines proudly hail from the Carneros AVA, with a significant portion of the fruit sourced from the estate's six vineyards, totaling 400 acres. A visit to Domaine Carneros is a feast for the senses. Guests can indulge in seated tastings on the terrace, overlooking the picturesque vineyards, or in the elegant Louis XV-style salon. Knowledgeable wine professionals guide visitors through the tasting experience, offering insights into the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of each wine. To complement the wines, Domaine Carneros offers a selection of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, smoked salmon, and caviar, all carefully chosen to enhance the tasting experience. Several elevated tasting experiences are available, including food and wine pairings and caviar-focused tastings. Beyond the wines and the stunning setting, Domaine Carneros is committed to sustainability. The winery has implemented various practices to preserve the environment, including Fish Friendly Farming and Napa Green certifications. This dedication to sustainability reflects a deep respect for the land and a commitment to producing wines that are both exceptional and environmentally responsible. Domaine Carneros is not just a winery; it's a destination. It's a place where visitors can escape the everyday and immerse themselves in the beauty of the Napa Valley. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious newcomer, Domaine Carneros offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for sparkling wine and the art of winemaking. To fully enjoy the Domaine Carneros experience, reservations are essential. The winery is open daily for tastings, but visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure their preferred time and seating location. Domaine Carneros welcomes groups of eight or less with advanced arrangement. All visitors must be 21 years of age or older. With its stunning setting, exceptional wines, and commitment to sustainability, Domaine Carneros is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a taste of Napa Valley luxury.

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