Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut Sparkling Wine Reviewed

A leftover holiday sparkler proves to be a satisfying Super Bowl companion.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Wine writer Randy Fuller reviews a bottle of Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut, a California sparkling wine made in the traditional Champagne method. Despite being a leftover from the holiday season, the wine impresses with its rich, yeasty aroma and creamy apple flavors that make it a meal in itself.

Why it matters

The review highlights how a quality sparkling wine can be an enjoyable accompaniment to major televised events like the Super Bowl, providing an alternative to beer or other typical game day beverages.

The details

The Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut is a 375ml half-bottle made using 85% Pinot Noir and 15% Chardonnay grapes. It was produced using the traditional Champagne method of in-bottle fermentation. The wine has a rich, yeasty aroma and a creamy, apple-forward flavor profile that the reviewer found satisfying to drink on its own without any food.

  • The wine was a leftover from the recent holiday season.
  • The reviewer tasted the wine while watching Super Bowl XLIV.

The players

Randy Fuller

The author of the review and a wine writer.

Gloria Ferrer

The winery that produced the Sonoma Brut sparkling wine.

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What they’re saying

“A nose of rich, yeasty toast and malt greets me - a formidable nose. It's a nose that makes its presence known.”

— Randy Fuller, Wine Writer (nowandzin.com)

“Apple on the palate gets really creamy. The wine has a huge mouthfeel, almost a beery sort of feel.”

— Randy Fuller, Wine Writer (nowandzin.com)

The takeaway

This review showcases how a quality sparkling wine can be an enjoyable and versatile beverage choice for major events and celebrations, providing a sophisticated alternative to more common game day drinks.