Step 1

Combine the potatoes, celery, onion, and garlic if desired, in a large pot and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the clam juice and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook until fork tender, about 10 minutes total. Remove from the heat.

Step 2

While the vegetables are cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth. Very slowly add 1 cup of milk, whisking constantly to maintain a smooth consistency. Add an additional cup of milk just as slowly, continually whisking.

Step 3

Pour in the remaining milk while whisking constantly and bring to a low simmer to thicken, about 3 minutes. Do not allow this to boil. Remove from the heat and pour the milk mixture into the pot with the tender vegetables.

Step 4

Add the clams and red wine vinegar. Season to taste with pepper and additional salt, if needed. Only if necessary, return the pot to low heat for just long enough to warm the chowder.