2012 Louis Roederer, Cristal Rose 3x75cl

Louis Roederer Champagne: Elegant, yet complex and powerful

Louis Roederer is one of the great houses of Champagne. Home of the famous Cristal, the Champagnes from here across the board are exceptional in quality and rightly revered.

The style here is one of complex elegance. A high proportion of Pinot Noir in the blend, oak barrels and the availability of excellent reserve wines give body and weight, but never heaviness and make this a Champagne of real sophistication.

Roederer Cristal Champagne

The flagship of the house, Cristal is one of the most famous of all luxury brands. Emblematic of all that is rare, exclusive and decadent, it is often associated with the night-time haunts of the super-rich. Cristal, however, is a superb Champagne and has a quality and gravitas to match its reputation.

Cristal was created in 1876 for Alexander II, tsar of Russia, who wanted a wine that was exclusive and distinctive. He asked Louis Roederer to reserve the best cuvée for him every year, and to present it in a transparent lead-crystal bottle. Legend has it so that any poison or booby traps in the bottle could be spotted. This special bottle gave the wine its name.

What makes Cristal special?

It is made only from the finest grapes, selected from the best vineyards to which Roederer has access in the Montagne de Reims, the Vallée de la Marne and the Côte des Blancs. It is a blend of about 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, with a small percentage of Pinot Meunier sometimes added.

To ensure quality, the grapes are harvested by hand and gently pressed. This means that only the most pristine and pure juice is used. Cristal is aged for at least six years in the cellars, and then for another eight months after before being released to ensure a degree of complexity and balance even on release. To drink it young, however, means to miss out on Cristal at its magnificent best and this usually requires plenty of bottle age.

Cristal is a Champagne of depth and sophistication, combining power and delicacy, subtlety, and precision. Fine bubbles reveal a rich and complex palate, with a silky texture and a refreshing acidity. The wine has a remarkable balance and harmony. The long and elegant finish reveals notes of minerality and spice.