Michael Hepworth
HOLLYWOOD(Spiritsman)10/24/13/–The Sonoma based company are well known in California for their approach to Pinot Noir and Chardonnay sparkling wines, and in fact their proper name is Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards. Recently the winery made it into the “Top 100 Winery of the Year” courtesy of Wine & Spirits Magazine, and it has also launched its first non-vintage Blanc de Blancs, retailing for $22 and made entirely from Chardonnay grapes.
This latest release has been selling out in limited quantities for ten years, and this is the first time it has become more universally available. Made from 100% Chardonnay grapes it opens up with an orange blossom bouquet, with flavors of Granny Smith apples, lemongrass, brioche and vanilla crème with a lively mineral notes. Best food pairings from this vibrant sparkling wine are scallops, baked halibut, oysters, fresh brie and other soft cheeses.
Some of the staples of the Ferrer catalog have also enjoyed a face lift with new labels, those cuvees being the Sonoma Brut, Blanc de Noirs and the VA DE VI. The VA DE VI is a smooth blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Moscato grapes and is a sparkling wine known for its crisp and refreshing taste, but not very dry. Prevalent flavors are peach, lemon, berries and vanilla and the alcohol content is 12.5% by volume. The name derives from Spanish and means ‘It’s about the wine.’
The Sonoma Brut is made up from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and the silky finish is reminiscent of green apples, black cherry, citrus and biscuit. These grapes are pulled from the family vineyard that stretches below and can be seen by all visitors to the vineyard from their well known and popular Vista Terrace.
The Blanc de Noirs has a light pink color with a silky finish tasting like strawberry, cherry, lime and vanilla. More creamy and elegant than the others, it signals a new era for the Spanish influenced company, who have also updated their web site with brand new photography, real time weather updates from the winery and direct links to Gloria Ferrer’s social pages.
There is also a new blog from the winery team called “The Glorious Life” no doubt about the joys and benefits of drinking champagne or sparkling wine every day along with the all important food pairing tips.
Michael Hepworth
287 S.Robertson Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90211
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