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Domaine Carneros

Carneros, CA

About

The Champagne Taittinger tradition was brought to California with the founding of Domaine Carneros in 1986. Beginning with 138 coveted acres, the Taittinger family was able to transplant their legacy and expertise onto the New World and redefine Champagne’s relationship with California sparkling wine. Located in the heart of the Los Carneros AVA between the Napa and Sonoma Valleys, gusty winds and a reliably cool climate make the 400-acre Domaine Carneros estate vineyards an ideal locale for sustainably growing the pinot noir and chardonnay needed to make ultra-premium  sparkling and still wines.
The portfolios of ultra-premium sparkling and still wines have distinguished Domaine Carneros as a benchmark for California wine. Those wines, crafted by Sparkling Winemaker Zak Miller and Pinot Noir Winemaker TJ Evans, reflect the unique terroir of Carneros while incorporating the rich legacy of Champagne Taittinger. That legacy is further reflected in the design of the Domaine Carneros château, which was inspired by the Taittinger family’s 18th century Château de la Marquetterie in Champagne, France.
 

People


Zak Miller – Sparkling Winemaker
Working alongside Founding Winemaker, Eileen Crane, opened to Miller a new realm of possibility in winemaking – sparkling wines – and he hasn’t looked back since. Through Crane and the Domaine Carneros team, he developed a deep appreciation for the versatility of both pinot noir and chardonnay in sparkling winemaking and the great skill required to craft beautifully balanced, elegant yet complex wines. And through his work as a sparkling winemaker, he grew to love a variety he admittedly didn’t gravitate toward originally – chardonnay – which provides the base for what he feels is its finest expression (and a personal favorite), Blanc de Blancs. Just prior to the 2020 harvest, Miller stepped into the role of Sparkling Winemaker, where he will be at the forefront of daily sparkling operations ranging from harvesting, cuvée blending, and tirage, seeing it all through the final sparkling wine process of disgorging.
 
TJ Evans – Pinot Noir Winemaker
TJ Evans grew up in Northern California, but his work has taken him to the world’s finest winemaking regions. After earning degrees from Amherst College and the University of California at Davis, Evans apprenticed at such legendary estates as Domain Jean Louis-Chave in France, Villa Maria Estate in New Zealand, and the Napa Valley’s Robert Mondavi Winery and Far Niente. Winemaking positions at La Crema’s Russian River Valley estate, and Alderbrook Winery in Dry Creek Valley helped Evans develop his love for pinot noir and expertise in crafting it. Evans then spent three years in Chile’s Bio Bio Valley helping create a pinot noir and chardonnay estate for Viñedos y Bodegas Córpora. Since his return in 2008, Evans has been developing Domaine Carneros’s portfolio of award-winning pinot noirs from diverse clonal and vineyard sources. His diligent work from vineyard to barrel has helped Domaine Carneros’s still wines reach the same level of acclaim as their iconic sparkling portfolio.

Eileen Crane - Founding Winemaker and former CEO
Crane is not only one of the industry’s pioneering women, but also the most experienced American sparkling winemaker with over 40 years to her credit and is widely regarded as the doyenne of sparkling wine in America. Her pursuit of excellence in viticulture, winemaking and hospitality has made Domaine Carneros an iconic American winery. After an incredibly successful career spanning 42 years, Eileen Crane stepped down from her role as CEO at the end of summer 2020.  She now serves as consulting winemaker for the team.

 

Press Highlights

News Articles


Domaine Carneros Celebrates Earth Day Every Day

15 April, 2024

Posted by under Domaine Carneros

Domaine Carneros Celebrates Earth Day Every Day Releases first "Powered by the Sun" Rosé, Experiments with lighter weight glass, New Director of Vineyard Operations focuses on Sustainability Napa, CA – April 15, 2024 – Adding to its multi-decade legacy of environmental stewardship, Domaine Carneros is pleased to share new initiatives that build upon its commitment to producing outstanding wine while continuously striving for best practices in sustainability. Installation of groundbreaking new microgrid technology in 2023 increased Domaine Carneros’ commitment to renewable energy.  In celebration, the winery is proud to release its first microgrid-powered wine, the 2023 Avant Garde Pinot Noir Rose, “Powered by The Sun.” The wine will go on sale on the winery's website on April 22nd, Earth Day. The winery's commitment to renewable energy began in 2003 when they installed the largest winery solar installation of its time.  Twenty-one years later, the winery has ‘amped up’ its solar commitment by doubling its solar capacity and connecting to a state-of-the-art microgrid battery system which supplies the winery with approximately 75% of its energy needs. CEO Remi Cohen shares, "Microgrid technology is revolutionary in its ability to store the solar energy that the panels collect.   At Domaine Carneros, the battery bank becomes charged over the course of a day and the stored energy is utilized to offset peak energy times and can be used in the evenings and overnight. Additionally, the microgrid ensures an independent power source during natural disasters."  In an ongoing effort to safely reduce the weight of their sparkling wine glass while maintaining the structural integrity needed to withstand 70-90 psi pressures, Domaine Carneros has initiated use of a 7% lighter weight bottle while continuing to strive toward future reduction. Seeking a reduction in the impact of shipping those bottles, the winery partners with Wine Direct to ship its wine club shipments, all of which are carbon offset.  The appointment of Allison Wilson as Director of Vineyard Operations early in 2024 brings a wealth of expertise in sustainable farming to its 400 acres of estate vineyards in the Carneros AVA. She brings with her 15 years of experience in sustainable vineyard operations, much of it centered in the AVA she now tends.  From inception, the intention at Domaine Carneros has been to create the best wines and most memorable sparkling wine experiences through healthy land, vines, and people. For the 37 years since its founding, Domaine Carneros has held itself to a high standard with respect to sustainable practices to ensure that the winery lives as lightly on the land as possible while producing excellent grapes, and, of course, wine. Domaine Carneros has sought and received certifications from numerous prestigious sustainable organizations including California Certified Sustainable Winegrowers, Napa Green, Bay Area Green, and Fish Friendly Farming.  Annual assessments and audits seek out new areas to improve upon rigorous standards of sustainability not only for the winery, but also for its place in the community and as an employer.  The winery implements the following measures towards continuous improvement: Re-use and recycling Through composting, recycling, and reuse, over 90% of solid waste is diverted from landfills. Water used in the production process is treated and  used to irrigate the estate vineyards, saving millions of gallons per year   A decade-long packaging reuse program, whereby 20-25% of cases and inserts are reused for in-house purposes. Sustainability Practices Solar energy has long been a crucial aspect of Domaine Carneros’ sustainability plan, having installed the largest solar collection system of any winery in the world when it was implemented in 2003. In 2023, Domaine Carneros was among the first wineries in the Napa Valley to install a solar microgrid and battery system, which supplies 75% of the winery’s power, and ultimately allows the winery to be self-sustaining during power outages.  The winery’s use of skylights, building into the earth, and employing night cooling systems to maintain cellar temperatures all contribute to energy conservation as well as robust employee involvement in daily conservation efforts.  The winery practices Integrated Pest Management using natural controls for vineyard pests such as boxes to attract owls which feed on voles and using cover crops that attract beneficial insects to control insect pests. Grape pomace from harvest is used to feed local cattle in a region of California with historic ties to the dairy business. Commitment to Employees Domaine Carneros holds strong principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and its staff is reflective of that commitment. Through a practice of open book management, employees are inspired and invited to be an integral part of collective success. The winery fosters and encourages mentorship for its staff and embraces professional development in the broader wine industry in the form of scholarship offerings and a fellowship. The winery has been awarded several prestigious honors from the state of California and other well-respected organizations. In April 2023, the winery received the RISE Leadership Award for outstanding waste prevention and greening of its supply chain. In 2020, the winery received the Napa Climate NOW! award for being a Climate Champion in the Business Category.  The winery also received the California Green Medal Business Award in 2019 for "demonstrating smart business through efficiencies, cost savings, and innovation from implementing sustainable practices." Only four wineries are awarded the medal each year, so the honor is quite significant given the number of wineries in the state. Domaine Carneros has been a Bay Area Green Business since 2014, Fish Friendly Farming certified since 2015, Napa Green Vineyard & Winery since 2014 and is Certified by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance since 2015.   ABOUT DOMAINE CARNEROS   Founded in 1987, Domaine Carneros reflects the hallmark of its founder, Champagne Taittinger, in creating a vision of terroir-driven sparkling wine and preserving the quality tenets of the methode traditionelle of sparkling wine production. Located entirely within the Carneros AVA, between Napa and Sonoma counties, the six estate vineyards total approximately 400 acres with 150 acres planted to chardonnay, and 250 acres planted to pinot noir. The winery focuses on making ultra-premium Carneros sparkling wines largely estate grown and limited production pinot noirs. For additional information, images, and interview requests, please contact Kimberly Noelle Charles, DipWSET of Charles Communications Associates at kcharles@charlescomm.com or 415-730-0064.
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Allison Wilson Appointed Director of Vineyard Operations at Domaine Carneros

13 February, 2024

Posted by under Domaine Carneros

Allison Wilson Appointed Director of Vineyard Operations at Domaine Carneros Napa, CA February 2024 -  Domaine Carneros is pleased to announce the appointment of Allison Cellini Wilson as Director of Vineyard Operations effective January 2024.  In her new role, Wilson, will lead a dedicated team, overseeing six estate vineyards totaling over 400 acres in the Carneros American Viticultural Area (AVA).  These estate vineyards, all located within a few miles of the winery, are renowned for producing premium fruit that forms the basis for Domaine Carneros’ esteemed méthode traditionelle sparkling wines and pinot noir program.    Bringing over a decade of experience in vineyard management with expertise to her new position, Wilson is well equipped to navigate the complexities of sustainable certification programs, grower relations and integration with winemaking teams.  Prior to joining Domaine Carneros she spent nine years at Cliff Lede Vineyards, rising from Viticulturist to Director of Vineyard Operations.   Wilson will lead a talented team including viticulturist Gita Mallya, assistant vineyard manager Jorge Flores and a crew of fifteen dedicated vineyard professionals.   Expressing her enthusiasm for this new chapter in her career,  Wilson remarked,  "I am thrilled to take on this role and collaborate with an experienced winemaking team to elevate our viticulture and vineyard management practices. Cultivating grapes for sparkling wine production presents an exciting challenge, and I am eager to implement best practices to enhance wine quality." Under the guidance of CEO Remi Cohen, Domaine Carneros fosters a culture of mentorship and professional growth, and Wilson is poised to leverage her expertise to advance both her team and the winery's overarching objectives. Known for her commitment to excellence, Wilson's leadership extends beyond her role at Domaine Carneros, as evidenced by her involvement on the Napa County Farm Bureau Board of Directors, participation as a Mentor with the Bâtonnage Forum, and her contributions as a reviewer for the American Vineyard Foundation. Commenting on Wilson's hire, Cohen stated "I've had the pleasure of collaborating with Allison in the past, and her talent and expertise will undoubtedly propel our vineyard operations to new heights." Wilson's profound understanding of  sustainable practices further fortifies Domaine Carneros' robust sustainability program, which holds certifications from CSWA, Napa Green, Bay Area Green, and Fish Friendly Farming.  Long recognized for conservation leadership, Domaine Carneros has earned prestigious accolades including the California Green Medal Business Award and the Sustainable Winegrowing Leadership Award. A native of Lafayette, California, Wilson's journey in agriculture began during her childhood visits to her uncle's vineyards.  Her passion for viticulture solidified during her studies at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo where she pursued a major in Fruit Science. Her early experience working at a tasting room in Paso Robles crystallized her career path affirming her dedication to the art and science of winemaking. ABOUT DOMAINE CARNEROS Founded in 1987, Domaine Carneros reflects the hallmark of its founder, Champagne Taittinger, in creating terroir-driven sparkling wine and preserving the quality tenets of the traditional method production.  Located entirely within the Carneros AVA, between Napa and Sonoma counties, the six estate vineyards total approximately 400 acres with 125 acres planted to Chardonnay, 225 acres planted to Pinot Noir, with the remaining acres currently in development. The winery focuses on making ultra-premium Carneros sparkling wines and limited production Pinot Noirs. Domaine Carneros' château has become a landmark and symbol of the region. The architecture and interior design were inspired by the 18th century Château de la Marquetterie, the historic Taittinger family residence in the Champagne region. Visitors to the chateau enjoy seated tastings of methode traditionelle sparkling wines and small-lot pinot noir in the elegant Jardin d’Hiver or on the broad terrace overlooking the rolling vineyards of Carneros. Domaine Carneros limited production wines are available onsite, via ecommerce, and are distributed nationally by Kobrand Corporation which, founded in 1944, remains one of the few family-owned wine and spirits companies in the United States. The winery places a high value on preserving the environment and has taken on a vast array of environmental efforts. The roof of the pinot noir winery adjacent to the château hosts a solar array that was the largest on any winery in the world when it was installed and continues to be expanded with a state-of-the-art microgrid launched in 2023.  The most recent award, one of many from federal, state, and local government; was the California Green Medal for Domaine Carneros’ demonstration of “Smart Business through efficiencies, cost savings and innovation from implementing sustainable practices.” For information, images and interviews please contact Kimberly Noelle Charles at Charles Communications Associates either by email kcharles@charlescomm.com or 415-730-0064.
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The T.J. Martell Foundation 3rd Annual Napa's Best Cellars Dinner to Honor Esteemed Wine Industry Veteran Remi Cohen, CEO of Domaine Carneros

6 November, 2023

Posted by under Domaine Carneros

THE T.J. MARTELL FOUNDATION 3RD ANNUAL NAPA’S BEST CELLARS DINNER TO HONOR ESTEEMED WINE INDUSTRY VETERAN REMI COHEN, CEO OF DOMAINE CARNEROS IN NAPA AT THE SILVERADO RESORT ON THURSDAY NOVEMBER 16 Napa, California – November 6, 2023 – The T.J. Martell Foundation, the music industry’s leading foundation that provides funds for innovative cancer research, is thrilled to announce the honoree for the 3rd Annual Napa’s Best Cellars Dinner. The esteemed wine industry veteran Remi Cohen, the CEO of Domaine Carneros will receive the T.J. Martell Foundation’s Corks and Commitment Award for her outstanding dedication to raising awareness of cancer research and support for patients. Remi's tireless commitment to fundraising, philanthropy, and her advocacy for cancer research aligns perfectly with our foundation's mission to find innovative treatments and cures. Her leadership in the wine industry, coupled with her passion for making a difference, makes her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award. Scheduled for November 16 at the Silverado Resort, Napa’s Best Cellars Dinner benefits the T.J. Martell Foundation, the non-profit entity championed by the music and entertainment industry which has raised more than $280 million to support innovative, early-stage research at leading research facilities, and, at University of California Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center. According to Co-Chair and Board of Trustee member, Marc Reiter of Metallica, “Our goal is to create higher public awareness that the Foundation fills an important niche in the field of cancer, focusing on funding early-stage cancer research. Our investments in early cancer research play a critical role in developing the “proof of concept” necessary to unlock more significant National Institutes of Health grants needed to pursue clinical trials and exciting new treatments and cures for cancer.” Co-Chair Scott Lewis of the V Wine Cellar in Yountville explained that “The Napa’s Best Cellars Dinner combines an evening of superb wines, gourmet cuisine, and an auction with the tremendously important mission of combating these diseases and eventually finding a cure through research. Warren Christensen, Danny Cooper, Max Duley, Bruce Gearhart, Dave Graham, Scott Lewis, Dino Paredes, Marc Reiter, Jeff Smith and I are grateful for the generous support already extended, and we were especially delighted to honor Remi Cohen the CEO of Domaine Carneros as a special guest at this third annual dinner. Cohen is one of the most respected people in the wine industry, with a long list of admirers here in the Napa Valley and throughout the world. Like so many of us, her life has been touched by cancer, and we are both heartened by her energy and desire to actively join our efforts to eradicate this evil and relentless disease.” The Napa’s Best Cellars Dinner commences at 5:30 PM with a reception that showcases sparkling wines from Domaine Carneros. Additionally, guests have the opportunity to indulge in tastings of the finest red wines that Napa Valley has to offer, including selections from renowned vineyards such as Brilliant Mistake wines, Dakota Shy Winery, Detert Family Vineyards, Jay Smith Selections, Pneu Wines, Rewa Vineyards, Riise Wine, and more. This event provides a unique experience where California's top wine collectors and wine connoisseurs will generously share wines from their private cellars. They will do so while enjoying an elegant four-course gourmet dinner complemented by exceptional Grand Crus and vintage wines. This is an occasion where influential community and business leaders come together to savor outstanding wines and cuisine. Guests are drawn to an enticing range of high-end auction items, sparking enthusiastic bidding. These selections include deluxe travel adventures, VIP tickets and access to various events and festivals, unique experiences like a bass guitar lesson from Metallica's Robert Trujillo, and the opportunity to enjoy a dinner for ten prepared in their home by Top Chef winner Michael Voltaggio. Additionally, the auction features distinctive music memorabilia and rare wines and spirits from across the globe. Lynn-Anne Huck, CEO of the T.J. Martell Foundation, highlighted that the organization is the music industry's foremost foundation dedicated to financing medical research aimed at discovering cancer cures. She expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from Californians, whose contributions play a pivotal role in advancing vital research efforts that ultimately benefit individuals affected by these diseases. For more information regarding purchasing tickets or tables for the dinner please visit: https://TJMARTELL23NAPA.givesmart.com About T.J. Martell Foundation: The T.J. Martell Foundation is the music industry’s leading foundation that funds innovative medical research focused on finding treatments and cures for cancer. The Foundation was founded in 1975 by music industry executive Tony Martell and his colleagues in loving memory of his son T.J., who died of leukemia. The Foundation has provided more than $280 million for research at nine flagship hospitals in the United States. For more information on the T.J. Martell Foundation visit www.tjmartell.org. For more information follow us on www.facebook.com/tjmartellfoundation, www.twitter.com/tjmartell, www.pinterest.com/tjmartellfndn, and www.instagram.com/tjmartellfoundation For media inquiries: Michelle Gilmore mgilmore@tjmartell.org For more information about Domaine Carneros contact: Kimberly Noelle Charles, kcharles@charlescomm.com Photo Credit: Mario Piombo
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