Travelling down the highway from Mendocino on our way to Truckee, California, I yearned for a tasting at Domaine Anderson.  We’d been to the Anderson Valley several years prior, but had visited their sister winery, Roederer at that time.  

Domaine Anderson is nestled into a refined and graceful setting – the architecture of the tasting room and surrounding buildings is beautiful.  Everything is in harmony – which is hardly surprising because these folks are cognizant of how important that is; they run an organic and biodynamic outfit.  Their vineyards are all certified organic, and the Dach in particular is Demeter Certified Biodynamic.  

I met Gregg Lamer that morning, Director of Hospitality and Tasting Room Operations for the three Roederer owned wineries (Roederer Estate, Scharfenberger Cellars, and Domaine Anderson).  Gregg managed my experience masterfully – with just the right amount of information and presence.  

I was a fan of both the Walraven Vineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Walraven is their warmest growing region in the south of the valley, but also has the most altitude featuring Chardonnay clone 124, and Dijon clones 114 and 667.  

Walraven Pinot Noir
Eyes – translucent cherry
Nose – Penny Royal with Byng cherry and ripe strawberry
Palate – More Byng cherry with strawberry and boysenberry compote, lingering mint layered with some leather belt, gracious tannins and acidity.  Drinkable now, or keep for 3-5 years

There’s a reason this winery made the 2023 list of the world’s top 100 in Wine & Spirits Magazine.  Elegantly constructed and delicious wines shown off in beautiful surroundings by top quality people will do that.