Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
-
Wine Enthusiast
Complex and individualistic, this conveys a savory rather than fruity personality. Smoky, meaty aromas lead to spice-accented plum and berry flavors. It feels full-bodied but not hot, has a suave texture and lingering finish. The first vintage to be released from the new Roederer-owned winery.
-
Wine & Spirits
This is the inaugural release from a new winery founded by the Rouzaud family of Champagne Louis Roederer, a project that developed out of the family’s long history in Anderson Valley via their Roederer Estate sparkling house. Jerry Murray, formerly of van Duzer, moved down from Oregon to manage the winemaking, working exclusively with the firm’s estate vineyards. Reduced right now, it needs a vigorous decanting, but the fruit underneath feels healthy, shadowy and alluring, its generous texture pointed toward dark fruit, earth and a salty marine aroma that suggests a pairing with poached salmon.
Anderson Valley, located in Mendocino County just above Sonoma County, is one of California’s coolest AVAs, allowing it a long growing season. Only 15 miles long, the region makes a slice eastward through the mountains, from the frigid Pacific Ocean. Dramatic diurnal temperature variations here preserve grape acidity and thus freshness in the finished wines. These are prime conditions for growing Pinot Noir, and the valley produces many fine versions. Characteristics of Anderson Valley Pinot Noir typically include crisp acidity, cranberry and strawberry notes as well as earthy notes of forest floor and mushroom.
Still Pinot Noir, however, is only part of the story. Pinot Noir, along with Chardonnay, are also grown for Anderson Valley’s exceptional sparkling wines. Produced via the traditional method, these offer a classic toasty note from lees aging, bright, complex fruit notes and a clean, refreshing character.