Description
The 2021 Roederer Estate “Clark Road Vineyard” Brut is a highly acclaimed, vintage-dated single-vineyard sparkling wine from the Anderson Valley appellation in Mendocino County, California. Released alongside their “Apple Valley” bottling, it represents an evolution for Roederer Estate as their first foray into single-site, vintage expressions.
77.6% Pinot Noir and 22.4% Chardonnay. The wine is primarily fermented in stainless steel (93%), with 7% fermented in oak casks. It incorporates 4.8% oak-aged reserve wines from the 2018 vintage. It was disgorged in December 2024 after spending 30 months aging on the yeast, with a precise dosage of 5.5 g/L. TA 9.3 g/L, pH 2.96. Alcohol 12.5%
The major wine critics have heavily praised the 2021 vintage for its “Grower Champagne” style and structure.
“A single-vineyard Pinot Noir-driven wine like a Grower Champagne, the 2021 Clark Road Vineyard is defined more by the site’s proximity to the ocean and altitude from the valley floor than its soils, a place where the producer felt they could do something relatively repeatable every year (although it took a decade to find). About 11 miles from the ocean, the grapes hang over an extended growing season taking in the cool air and morning fog. At 77.6% Pinot Noir, 22.4% Chardonnay, and 5.5 grams per liter dosage, the Chardonnay brings a lightness of acidity, a light, ethereal quality met by the Pinot’s crunch of red apple and texture. Moderately rich, it’s medium-bodied and has a creaminess balanced by plenty of acidity, with a bold finish. Disgorged December 2024. Drink now and over the next 10-12 years.” 94 points – Jeb Dunnuck
“Pretty aromas of grapefruit, mint, eucalyptus and white nectarines. The palate is bright, with flavors of green mangoes, citrus and red berries. Vibrant acidity and rich bubbles. A powerful yet nuanced wine that is a joy to drink. 77.6% pinot noir and 22.4% chardonnay. Disgorged December 2024. 5.5 g/L dosage. Drink or hold.” – 94 points, Jame Suckling
“The 2021 Clark Road Vineyard is a powerful, deep sparkling wine. Green apple, jasmine, white peach, chalk and slate race across the palate. The 2021 is wonderfully deep and fleshy yet retains terrific vibrancy from start to finish. Brisk saline undertones extend the resonant, salivating finish.” 94 points,Vinous.com, Antonio Galloni,
“Tiny, robust bubbles with aromas of Fuji apple, blood orange, and crystallized ginger, good acidity and minerality, firm, creamy key lime mousse, vibrating with green apple, white nectarine, and mouthwatering finish.” – 93 points, Wine Enthusiast
“Rich and gracefully structured, with lilting flavors of strawberry, pear, yeast roll and roasted nuts that linger on the lush finish. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.” – 93 points, Wine Spectator
