2011 Roederer Estate L'Ermitage Brut Sparkling Anderson Valley

About this wine

As the holidays approach, bubbles and fizz abound. There is a quandry, however. Champagne reigns supreme in this category. So, what is a blue blooded American celebrating Thanksgiving, the most American of holidays, to toast with? The answer: This wine. Born and raised in Mendocino in the bucolic Anderson Valley where it is sufficiently cold to make crisp and bright sparkling wines, this wine is consistently one of the best sparkling wines made in the US! Under the guidance of Louis Roederer, the same house that brings you one of the most sought after champagnes in the world, Cristal, this wine sees all of the same care and attention but it doesn't cost $250 a bottle!

When you consider that L'Ermitage is considered the Roederer Estate's Tête de Cuvée and that is made only in exceptional years from pre-selected, estate-grown grapes, you realize this is a special wine indeed. And, for under $40, L'Ermitage bests all of the Champagnes we've tasted at the same price.

Made in the methode traditionelle, this wine aged in French oak for five years. Fine tiny bubbles and a long lasting mousse are the usual footprints of the L’Ermitage cuvee. Delicate aromas boast hazelnut, pastry and pear. Mouthfeel is very pure, focused freshness wrapped in yeast creaminess. Lemon curd and nutty characters abound.

If you haven't had the opportunity to taste this wine, yet you enjoy a toasty, sparkling wine that is All-American, this wine is for you!

Blend: 52% Chardonnay, 48% Pinot Noir - 4% aged reserve wine, vintage 2006 and 2007

Reviews

Dry and nicely mature, this complex wine is always among California's best bubblies. It combines great balance, tiny bubbles and some very interesting flavors that make it as appealing as a well-cellared white Burgundy at its peak. Hints of toast, butter and almond fill the aroma, and lemon, crisp apple and baking spices fill the palate. It has lively acidity that's softened by a good sense of body. ~95 points, Editor's Choice, Wine Entusiast. #2 on list of Top 100 wines of 2018 WE!