Coming mostly from estate fruit, the NV Brut Premier is a terrific value offering lots of golden apple and white flower notes, medium-bodied, richness, and a textured, balanced, layered mouthfeel. It's beautifully done and one classy Champagne to enjoy over the coming 7-8 years.

Roederer's nonvintage cuvée is ripe and bright. The acidity and clean white-fruit flavors show strongly, allied to a tangy texture. It is a little drier than previous bottlings, a product of the ripe fruit that needed less dosage. Drink now.

Firm acidity and a zesty bead create a snappy frame for the flavors of ripe cherry, honeysuckle and smoke in this lively, accessible Champagne. Drink now.

The NV Brut Premier is bold, powerful and intense. Hazelnut, smoke, dried pear, mint and savory herbs are all pushed forward. In this release, the Brut Premier is a bit brash and unpolished, with less of its typical finesse. Let's just say I was not surprised to scan the back label and learn that this release is based on the 2011 vintage. Even Roederer could not overcome the significant challenges presented by the 2011 vintage.