ACCOLADES
92 points, Wine Enthusiast, December 15, 2010
With a deep, shiny color of copper and peach blush, you can tell this sparkling wine will be somewhat full-bodied and rich. And it is. Made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, it’s a big, flamboyant bubbly, rich in raspberries, limes and yeast. Yet it retains the delicacy and elegance of a fine sparkling wine. —S.H.

92 Points, Wine Enthusiast, December 30, 2008

PHILOSOPHY
French for star— étoile embodies our commitment to crafting the finest sparkling wine in America. The winemaking team has carte blanche in creating this wine. They have absolute freedom to break from all traditional limitations and commonly accepted rules in sparkling winemaking. For example, we impose no appellation requirement and allow the winemaking team to source from the very best vineyards in any given vintage. With no vintage requirements, we have the freedom to blend the current vintage with the perfect complement of library, or reserve wines, to build layers of depth and complexity. This is the concept of sur lees dating. We subscribe to no predetermined varietal blend or style; we simply reflect the best style the vineyards have to offer. étoile Rosé combines the forward fruit of a red wine and the elegant structure of a white. It is coveted by the most passionate connoisseurs for its unique character and limited availability.

TASTING NOTES
In keeping with the traditional rosé winemaking method, we add a small amount of red wine (Pinot Noir) prior to tirage to create the distinctive salmon color with copper hues. The wine’s aromas are rich and complex - floral notes with Santa Rosa plum, raspberry and nutmeg. These aromas follow through on the palate and are layered with candied ginger and pomegranate flavors, evolving into truffle, cocoa and earthy tones. The wine finishes with excellent length and richness that will stand up to a variety of foods.

FOOD AND WINE PAIRING
The understated power of this wine with its bold but elegant character is an excellent match with the richness found in foie gras, lobster, veal, and simple desserts such as crème brûlée. For even more fun, try this wine on a romantic picnic.

Appellation: Napa and Sonoma Counties

Composition:
49% Chardonay
45% Pinot Noir
6% Pinot Meunier

Aging Profile: Aged sur lees since 2003, for a minimu of 5 years