Hommage à Camille: A Legacy of Terroir
The Hommage à Camille collection represents a continuation of the vision first initiated by Camille Olry-Roederer, one of the most influential figures in the history of the Louis Roederer house. This collection of still wines explores the unique expressions of Champagne’s terroirs, honoring the bold leadership and innovative spirit of Camille.
Camille Olry-Roederer: A Transformational Leader
Camille Olry-Roederer led the Louis Roederer house from 1932 to 1975, a period marked by significant challenges and growth. Widowed early, Camille inherited a collection of vineyard plots that had been carefully assembled by her husband, Léon, during the aftermath of the phylloxera crisis. These exceptional sites in Aÿ, Avize, Cramant, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, and Cumières became the foundation for the house’s distinctive style. Camille’s stewardship ensured the preservation and development of these vineyards, securing their role in shaping the identity of Louis Roederer’s wines.
Her connection to the terroirs of Champagne went beyond viticulture; it was a philosophy of respecting and highlighting the land’s inherent qualities. This perspective laid the groundwork for the creation of single-vineyard wines that showcase the essence of these unique sites.
The Vision of Frédéric Rouzaud
Frédéric Rouzaud, current head of Louis Roederer, drew inspiration from his great-grandmother’s visionary approach. The Hommage à Camille collection reflects his commitment to both tradition and innovation. By crafting single-vineyard still wines, Rouzaud continues the house’s exploration of Champagne’s potential beyond sparkling wines, pushing the boundaries of what the region’s terroirs can offer.
Focus on the Terroirs: Volibarts and Charmont
Volibarts: Chardonnay from Le Mesnil-sur-Oger
The Volibarts vineyard is a historic southeast-facing 55-are plot located in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. Known for its old vines, this site benefits from slow vine growth, which contributes to the production of wines with remarkable depth and structure. Bespoke vinification methods emphasize the unique characteristics of the Chardonnay grapes, including precision, balance, and structure.
The 2020 Volibarts Chardonnay underwent partial pre-fermentation maceration, followed by spontaneous fermentation. Aging took place over 16 months on fine and gross lees, utilizing a combination of 28% new barrels, 44% sandstone tanks, and 28% stainless steel. This careful approach highlights the interplay of traditional and modern techniques, enhancing the wine’s character.
Charmont: Pinot Noir from Mareuil-sur-Aÿ
Charmont, a 43-are plot within the Mareuil-sur-Aÿ terroir, is dedicated to Pinot Noir. The vineyard’s sunny disposition and low-intervention viticultural practices provide an ideal setting for exploring the potential of this grape. Gentle maceration, including 30% whole clusters, and spontaneous fermentation were followed by 16 months of aging in oak barrels—a third of which were new, with the remainder split between first- and second-fill barrels.
The resulting Pinot Noir embodies the intricate relationship between the vineyard’s characteristics and the winemaking process. Its refined structure and complexity underscore the importance of minimal intervention and precise aging techniques.
Embracing Innovation: A Tribute to Nature and Heritage
Hommage à Camille exemplifies a bridge between past and future. Drawing on Camille’s pioneering spirit, the collection integrates innovative practices such as solar viticulture and tailored vinification to reveal new dimensions of Champagne’s terroirs. This approach reflects a dedication to sustainability and a respect for the natural world’s potential.
2020 Vintage Conditions
The 2020 growing season presented a series of climatic challenges, echoing patterns observed in 2019. A mild and wet winter transitioned into a dry, sunny summer punctuated by heatwaves. Rain in June provided a much-needed balance, ensuring the vines’ health and resulting in ripe, harmonious fruit. These conditions were particularly favorable for the production of still wines, allowing for the full expression of the Volibarts and Charmont terroirs.
Winemaking and Key Details
Louis Roederer Coteaux Champenois 'Hommage à Camille' Blanc 2020
Vineyard: Volibarts, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger
Grape: 100% Chardonnay
Harvest Date: September 11, 2020
Vinification: 1/3 pre-fermentation maceration; spontaneous fermentation
Aging: 16 months on fine and gross lees (28% new barrels, 44% sandstone tanks, 28% stainless steel)
Alcohol: 12.9%
Bottling Date: January 12, 2022
Louis Roederer Coteaux Champenois 'Hommage à Camille' Rouge 2020
Vineyard: Charmont, Mareuil-sur-Aÿ
Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
Harvest Date: August 30, 2020
Vinification: 14-day maceration with 30% whole clusters; spontaneous fermentation
Aging: 16 months in oak barrels (1/3 new, 1/3 one fill, 1/3 two fills)
Alcohol: 12.1%
Bottling Date: January 12, 2022
Conclusion
Hommage à Camille stands as a testament to Louis Roederer’s enduring commitment to excellence and innovation. By honoring Camille Olry-Roederer’s legacy through these single-vineyard still wines, the collection underscores the house’s dedication to exploring the depth and diversity of Champagne’s terroirs. These wines are a remarkable continuation of a vision that celebrates both heritage and progress.