Louis Roederer : Cristal 2005

Louis Roederer Cristal is a unique cuvée thanks to its iconic bottle and its quality. Its bottle of white crystal contains the cuvée from the best selection of vines among 7 grand crus of the Roederer estate, only elaborated during the years judged as exceptional. The Cristal vintage of 2005 distinguishes itself with its Chardonnay style, which associates elegance and thickness, vinosity and length. Its robe is gold and bright, with a light amber reflection and a regular and dynamic sparkle. On the nose, its bouquet is intense, and at the same time, rich and elegant on yellow and white fruits notes as apples, peaches, or citrus fruits. Within a few seconds, more special aromas appear as white flowers and nuts with buttery,caramelised, and almost vanilla flavoured accents. On the mouth, the attack of Cristal 2005 is broad, soft and vinous. The savours are rich and warm as the delicate sparkle stretches the palate in a pure and willowy line. Cristal 2005 of Louis Roederer is an exceptional champagne.

Wine Advocate-Parker :
The 2005 Cristal stands out for its exceptional inner perfume and elegance. Soft, delicate and pretty, the 2005 is a relatively immediate Cristal with all of the signatures very much in the right place. The 2005 doesn't have the opulence of the 2002 nor the focus of the 2004, but it is a very pretty, if somewhat small-scaled version of this iconic Champagne. I would drink the 2005 while the 2002 and 2004 age. Although Cristal has an impeccable track record when it comes to aging, personally I would not push it with the 2005. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020.