Gloria Ferrer Blanc de Noirs NV

Wine Enthusiast rating: 91

The Ferrers were ahead of the curve in terms of discovering Carneros back in the early 1980s, and their varietal choices - namely Pinot Noir and Chardonnay - for this cool, bay-exposed plantation reflected a good sense of both terroir and business. Those Champagne varieties are here in a cuvee that has consistently won favor with critics and consumers… and “consistency” is the name of the game in the bubble-biz. Attractively pale peachy to the eye with fine tight bubbles to liven the palate or enliven the celebration, this is technically a perfect Champenoise-style sparkler, composed read more...of 92% Pinot Noir and 8% Chardonnay. Clean and crisp from beginning to finish. And, there’s enough biscuit, residual yeast and hint of apple to put you in a Champagne mindset, whilst having the necessary “RC” (residual coin) for a second (or third or fourth) bottle, just in case this celebration really gets going.    (hide)

Quite a reliable non-vintage. Pleasant bubbles and a light, consistent flavor throughout with hints of strawberry and blackberry.

June 2008

The Wine News rating: 94

Delicate black cherry and strawberry fruit flavors make this fun sparkling wine enjoyable for all.

The Ferrers were ahead of the curve in terms of discovering Carneros back in the early 1980s, and their varietal choices – namely Pinot Noir and Chardonnay – for this cool, bay-exposed plantation reflected a good sense of both terroir and business. Those Champagne varieties are here in a cuvee that has consistently won favor with critics and consumers… and “consistency” is the name of the game in the bubble-biz. Attractively pale peachy to the eye with fine tight bubbles to liven the palate or enliven the celebration, this is technically a perfect Champenoise-style sparkler, composed read more...of 92% Pinot Noir and 8% Chardonnay. Clean and crisp from beginning to finish. And, there’s enough biscuit, residual yeast and hint of apple to put you in a Champagne mindset, whilst having the necessary “RC” (residual coin) for a second (or third or fourth) bottle, just in case this celebration really gets going.    (hide)

October 2008