Sparkling Wines of Carneros Nestled between the Sonoma Mountains to the west and the Napa River to the east lies California's much-lesser known county of Carneros. But this small, sparkling jewel creates some of the world's finest sparkling wines. Here in Carneros, the maritime influence of the Pacific Ocean and San Pablo Bay are overwhelming, bringing cool temperatures, fog and wind that increase the acidity of the Pinot Noir grapes - so necessary to produce a world-renowned sparkling wine with structure and finesse. Join the Thirsty Traveler as he rides the rails to Carneros county and lights up the dark Champagne Caves with glass after glass of vintage sparkling wine.