Perfect for NYE : Review of My Tasting at Roederer Winery



Yesterday, I had the pleasure of visiting Roederer Winery in Anderson Valley about 2 hours North of San Francisco in the heart of the Norcal Wine Country.  I am not a big drinker, but those of you who know me, know I rarely turn down the bubbly. 

For some, Champagne is an acquired taste, and I guess it's one I have definitely acquired! I love the crisp, fruity taste, not to mention how the bubbles tickle your nose as you sip the luscious nectar.  I am one of those "Champagne Girls" who's goal is to let the world know..."You don't need a special occasion to drink the bubbles."  You could take that comment literally, but maybe I just feel this way, because I believe every day is a celebration!!!

Yesterday was truly a celebration, because my mother arrived in California for the first time since her college days.  Anxious to "wine and dine her" with all the best California has to offer, I planned a trip to Roederer Estate for a Champagne tasting.  I have become familiar with their wine, since their yummy Brut NV is available by the glass at nearly every eatery in Northern California, so I was exceedingly excited to taste the goods right from the source.



We entered the gates and we knew we were in for a treat.  The winding driveway paralleled the vineyards which stretched as far as we could see, leading us to the elegant tasting room, perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the estate.

Upon entry, we signed the guestbook and were warmly greeted by Jill, Roederer's sommolier and hospitality director.  After explaining that I own a wine bar back in NC, we were treated like VIPs.  We were even invited to take a peek into the adjacent bottling room before our tasting.





The tasting room was not busy, but coincidentally, the only other guests were a couple from Asheville, NC...less than an hour away from our home!  A tasting at Roederer is $6.00 per person and includes 8 1oz. pours (5 Champagne and 3 still).  You can also purchase your favorites by the glass. 

After the tasting, I purchased an etched bottle of Extra Dry which is only available at the winery and not nationally distributed...planning to save it for NYE!!! 



All in all, Roederer is the best domestic Sparkling Wine I can remember tasting in quite some time and is a great deal at around $20. per bottle.  It just has that "real" french Champagne taste, and it figures, since Roederer is a branch off of the French house of Champagne Louis Roederer... maker of the famed Cristal Champagne.  I recommend this anyone looking for the perfect Sparkling Beverage to ring in the New Year.

Please check out their website to find a distributor near you!  http://www.roedererestate.com/index.php