Roederer Estate was founded in 1982 and is nestled in Mendocino County’s fog-shrouded, Anderson Valley. This California property is under the umbrella of the French house of Champagne Louis Roederer. This estate builds upon a centuries-old tradition of fine winemaking. Anderson Valley’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean gives rise to a gentle cycle of warm days and cool nights, allowing grapes to mature slowly on the vine and develop varietal character.

The current release of the NV Estate Brut is a multi-vintage blend of nearly 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir from estate-grown fruit in Anderson Valley. It is aged a minimum of two years on the yeast. This sparkler is always one of my go to favorites in the sparkling wine category. The wine has a pale yellow appearance with a fine, persistent mousse. The elegant bouquet is reminiscent of a lightly buttered almond croissant leading you to an entry of freshly baked apple cobbler, yellow candied citrus fruits, lemon zest and saline notes. There is a nice, vibrant acidity that layers across your palate keeping everything fresh and in balance. This is a sleek bottling that never disappoints.

By W Peter Hoyne