Louis Roederer : Cristal 2007

An Emblematic Cristal with a Discreet Power

Cristal is the emblematic prestige cuvée of the famous Louis Roederer Champagne House. It has become one of the world's most famous and exceptional champagnes, only made in vintages that deserve to be immortalised. 2017 was a mostly warm year at Roederer. A warm spring was followed by a cool summer, with drought occurring at the end of August and harvest taking place under ideal sanitary conditions.

Sourced from the great limestone terroirs of the Grands Crus in Montagne de Reims, the Marne Valley and the Côte des Blancs, the fruit blends 58% Pinot Noir and 42% Chardonnay. Around 15% of the wines are matured in oak barrels, with weekly batonnage taking place and no malolactic fermentation. After maturing for 5 years in the cellars, this cuvée rested for 8 more months after disgorging.

The Cristal 2007 is a fantastic example of the "discreet power" of Cristal.

In the glass, the Cristal 2007 displays a golden hue with subtle orange highlights, and a consistent and dynamic flow of fine bubbles. The attack presents plenty of juicy ripe fruit (yellow pears) and red fruit (redcurrants). The fruit aromas intermingle with buttery, flaky hot pastry aromas, like those of a home-made apple pie, fresh out of the oven. Sweeter touches of white chocolate and hazelnuts round out this classic bouquet. On the palate, the attack is very concentrated, revealing with some time mature fruits. This champagne seduces with its silky, velvety, luscious texture, with a touch of salinity towards the finish leaving behind an impression of great lightness and refinement.