"I'd love to taste this blind along side Krug Grand Cuvée!"

- Jancis Robinson

In Champagne, everyone talks about their "mastery of blending." But few take it to the level of Eric Rodez. After eight generations in Ambonnay and a stint as chef de cave at Krug, Rodez doesn't just blend different vintages and varieties – he maintains 15 separate perpetual reserves (like a complex sourdough starter, but for Champagne) to create layers of complexity that seem impossible.

Jancis’ quote is no accident, and it’s not just a question of Rodez’ training. His is a small, family operated grower, but one that invests whatever it takes to make wines with the depth and breadth of the greatest of the Grand Marques.

His lineup reads like a master class in Ambonnay terroir. The Blanc de Noirs is pure Pinot Noir from this legendary Grand Cru village, showing the power and red fruit intensity that make Ambonnay famous. But it's the precision and mineral cut that tells you you're drinking something special – the kind of Champagne that makes you pause mid-conversation to figure out what's happening in your glass.

The Blanc de Blancs flips the script on everything you think you know about Ambonnay. Pure Chardonnay from this Pinot-dominated village? Well, Rodez is as much a master of his terroir as he is of the cellars, and that Ambonnay terroir includes sites that are almost pure chalk (purer even than the Cotes des Blancs!). Rodez selects old vines from this unique terroir to create a wine of gorgeous (and, perhaps, surprising) tension and elegance, with notes of chalky minerality and fresh citrus that will make Côte des Blancs producers nervous.

The Rosé de Maceration is another revelation. Unlike most pink Champagnes that get their color from adding still red wine, this gets its subtle copper hue from brief skin contact – an old technique that adds incredible depth and texture. Think wild strawberries and orange peel rather than simple red fruits.

But the crown jewel is the Grandes Vintages a blend of Rodez’ finest lots from multiple years, including wines from those famous perpetual reserves. it’s a Champagne of extraordinary complexity and the specific wine that Jancis wanted to taste next to Krug. It somehow captures both power and finesse, showing intense fruit but also subtle autolytic notes of fresh bread and roasted nuts. Perfect for your holiday table, (or buy a few and put some in the cellar… you will be grateful on holidays to come).

All are Extra Brut, allowing the precision of Rodez's work to shine through, and all are from 100% Grand Cru fruit from Ambonnay. We managed to secure a solid allocation of these wines, but if previous years are any indication, they won't last long. Please click below to place your orders now.

Eric Rodez Champagne Grand Cru Extra Brut Grandes Vintages NV $131.99

Eric Rodez Champagne Grand Cru Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut NV $93.99

Eric Rodez Champagne Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut NV $89.99

Eric Rodez Champagne Grand Cru Extra Brut Rose Maceration NV $89.99