Tasting Room of the Week:
GLORIA FERRER
CHAMPAGNE CAVES
by Diana Greenwood
In the 1980s, José Ferrer took up his family’s search for the ideal place to grow grapes in America and when he traveled to California, he was drawn to the Mediterranean climate of the Carneros region. It reminded him of the family land in Spain. At the time, it was merely a cow pasture but José saw the beauty and potential and knew he’d found the right place. The Ferrers purchased 250 acres and planted vineyards with the traditional sparkling wine grapes of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. In 1986, José named the elegant, Spanish-style winery overlooking estate vineyards after his beloved wife, Gloria. Today, the family cultivates 385 acres and produces a range of sparkling and still wines.
At Gloria Ferrer Champagne Caves, you’ll experience a gracious hospitality that stems from old-world etiquette. This is a romantic place, a sparkling jewel where your comfort and pleasure is uppermost in the minds of staff. The tasting room is spacious and inviting with ample seating. Sunlight from double doors and arched windows creates a cheery, relaxed atmosphere. There’s no rushing here. Views from the Vista Terrace are magnificent, especially now when the rolling hills of Carneros renew with vibrant spring grasses and wildflowers.
Spring is the season of romance so gentlemen, take note: a glass of bubbles is a girl’s best friend. What better way to propose than with a Champagne toast to your future? When she says yes, consider holding the ceremony on the Vista Terrace, under the stars, with a dramatic dinner for up to 120 guests in a picture-perfect setting you’ll never forget.
When you visit, you’ll taste in each sip, the experience of a family making wine since the 13th century. On a tour you’ll learn how sparkling wine is made in the classic méthode champenoise style and you’ll marvel at the state-of-the-art facility.
“We’re one of very few wineries who focus on quality sparkling wines and also have quality wines in our table wine portfolio, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Syrah,” said Tom Scott, Hospitality Director. “Gloria Ferrer is not a business that tries to grab at the newest trend, focusing instead on the long term and quality in every wine we make.”
Located at 23555 Hwy. (121), Gloria Ferrer Champagne Caves is one of the first wineries you’ll discover when traveling from San Francisco. Follow the long, olive tree-lined driveway toward the hills. Grounds surrounding the hacienda-style winery are lovely with the scents of rosemary and thyme mingling with the aromas of rich soil and wild grasses. The winery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with wine service until 4:45 and you’ll enjoy a complimentary Catalan tapa of roasted and spiced almonds while you taste. Sparkling wine is available by the glass from $4 to $10 and the staff believes a generous sample is the best way to appreciate the true flavors. Table wines are offered in 2-ounce portions for $2 to $3 each. Tours are conducted daily but call ahead (707) 933-1917, for an updated schedule.
Gloria Ferrer presents events throughout the year and there are two you won’t want to miss. On May 13th 2007, celebrate Mother’s Day with a reception at 11 a.m., a private winery tour, and lunch at noon. Seating is limited so call now for reservations. Cost is $80 per person, $64 for Cuvée Club members.
One of the most popular annual events is the spectacular Catalan Festival, a celebration of the Ferrer family’s heritage and a tribute to the past, scheduled this year for July 21 and 22. The winery closes for this authentic fiesta featuring Mediterranean cuisine, traditional music, art, crafts, and Gloria Ferrer wines. Advanced reservations are required. Tickets are $40, and $32 for Cuvée Club members and for under 21. Children under 5 are free. Visit the website at http://www.gloriaferrer.com or call (707) 933-1999 for more informtion.
