Winemaker Notes
Critical Acclaim
All Vintages
Carpe Diem wines are crafted by two world-renowned winemaking teams, using select grapes from two distinct California appellations: Anderson Valley for pinot noir and chardonnay, and Napa Valley for cabernet sauvignon.
Vinified under the meticulous supervision of the Roederer winemaking team, the philosophy behind Carpe Diem’s Pinot Noir and Chardonnay is to offer the best of two worlds: the richness of California fruit and the elegance of a French wine.
Carpe Diem launched its Napa Cabernet Sauvignon with the 2005 vintage, vinified by Christian Moueix‘s expert winemaking team in Yountville, California. Carpe Diem Cabernet embodies the essence of finely balanced Napa Valley classic cabernet sauvignon made in a traditional style.
Anderson Valley, located in Mendocino County just above Sonoma County, is one of California’s coolest AVAs, allowing it a long growing season. Only 15 miles long, the region makes a slice eastward through the mountains, from the frigid Pacific Ocean. Dramatic diurnal temperature variations here preserve grape acidity and thus freshness in the finished wines. These are prime conditions for growing Pinot Noir, and the valley produces many fine versions. Characteristics of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir typically include crisp acidity, cranberry and strawberry notes as well as earthy notes of forest floor and mushroom.
Still Pinot Noir, however, is only part of the story. Pinot Noir, along with Chardonnay, are also grown for Anderson Valley’s exceptional sparkling wines. Produced via the traditional method, these offer a classic toasty note from lees aging, bright, complex fruit notes and a clean, refreshing character.