Established in 1973, Domaine Chandon USA was the first French-owned sparkling wine house in the Napa Valley. Founded by the legendary French Champagne house Moët & Chandon, the estate was envisioned as a bridge between centuries-old Champagne tradition and the rising wine culture of California.
A Legacy of Excellence
Nestled in the scenic heart of Napa Valley, Domaine Chandon quickly became synonymous with both innovation and authenticity. It pioneered not only sparkling winemaking in California but also introduced American audiences to the refined complexities of méthode traditionnelle production.
A Winemaking Philosophy Rooted in Dual Heritage
At Chandon, every bottle is born from the philosophy of balance, expression, and terroir. The winemaking team crafts wines using the méthode traditionnelle, the same time-honored technique used in the Champagne region. This process—where the second fermentation occurs in the bottle—results in fine, persistent bubbles and deep complexity.
Yet, Chandon is also unapologetically Californian. The team embraces the rich diversity of Napa’s microclimates and soils, allowing the natural character of each grape variety—Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier—to shine.
The Vineyards and Terroir
Spanning over 1,100 acres, Chandon's estate vineyards stretch across Napa Valley’s most revered appellations: Yountville, Los Carneros, and Mount Veeder.
- Los Carneros, with its foggy mornings and cool breezes, provides pristine acidity and structure—perfect for sparkling wine.
- Yountville delivers warmth and richness, contributing depth and body.
- Mount Veeder, at higher elevations, adds concentration and elegance.
Together, these vineyard sites offer a complex mosaic of terroir, which is meticulously expressed in every cuvée.
Notable Wines: A Toast to Versatility
Domaine Chandon offers a portfolio that spans classic Brut styles to more experimental blends, all united by finesse and freshness.
Chandon Brut Classic
A signature house style — bright, balanced, and crowd-pleasing — blending Chardonnay and Pinot Noir for crisp notes of green apple, citrus, and brioche.
Chandon Étoile Brut
The pinnacle of Chandon craftsmanship. Extended aging lends complexity, with aromas of toasted almond, creamy textures, and a lingering mineral finish.
Chandon Blanc de Noirs
A deeper, fruit-driven sparkling wine made predominantly from Pinot Noir. Expect ripe red berries, subtle spice, and a lush mouthfeel.
Chandon Extra Dry Riche
A slightly sweeter expression, crafted for pairing with spicy cuisine and desserts. It offers aromas of ripe peach, honey, and floral undertones.
Chandon Rosé
Vibrant, expressive, and modern, this rosé offers delicate hues, strawberry and watermelon aromas, and a refreshingly dry finish.
Each bottle tells a story of precision, patience, and pleasure, bringing the sophistication of sparkling wine to every occasion — from everyday aperitifs to milestone celebrations.
A Destination to Discover
Visiting Domaine Chandon is a multi-sensory experience. The estate features striking architecture, manicured gardens, and sweeping views of the Napa landscape.
Guests can enjoy:
- Guided tastings showcasing the range of sparkling and still wines
- Winemaker-led tours that delve into the production process
- Culinary pairings crafted to highlight the nuances of each wine
It’s more than a winery — it’s a celebration of California’s finest wine lifestyle, where elegance meets approachability.
Commitment to Sustainability and Community
Domaine Chandon is deeply invested in sustainability. Through water conservation, organic vineyard practices, and solar energy initiatives, the winery prioritizes environmental responsibility.
Chandon also champions diversity, equity, and inclusion within its workforce and the broader Napa community. Through local partnerships and global collaborations, it uses its platform to create meaningful impact — both socially and environmentally.
Conclusion: Sparkling Heritage, California Soul
Domaine Chandon USA stands as a shining example of how tradition and innovation can co-exist — beautifully. From the rolling hills of Napa Valley to tables across the world, every bottle captures the spirit of celebration, craftsmanship, and connection.
Whether you're discovering sparkling wine for the first time or you're a seasoned enthusiast, Chandon offers an experience that’s refined yet inviting, classic yet bold — a true testament to what American sparkling wine can be.
