“Roederer Estate’s winemaking style is based on two elements: ownership of its own vineyards and the addition of oak-aged reserve wines to each year’s blend or cuvée. All the grapes for the Anderson Valley wines are grown on the estate. Oak-aged wines from the estate’s reserve cellars are added to the blend, creating a multi-vintage cuvée in the traditional Louis Roederer style.”

The sparkling wines from Roederer Estate are clear winners in the quality to price ratio and always consistent. Winemaker Arnaud Weyrich uses Pinot Noir and Chardonnay for this cuvée. He prepares a small portion of pinot noir wine with extended maceration and adds about three to five percent to the blend, imparting a subtle salmon tinge. There is a delicate salmon hue with an enticing bouquet of fresh bread and dried flowers. Cassis and red plums make up the middle core which is fresh and inviting.

By W Peter Hoyne