Cristal Champagne, the story of an iconic cuvée
The most emblematic cuvée of the Louis Roederer Champagne House, Cristal is a champagne born from the passion of one Russian. It was first created in 1876 exclusively for Tsar Alexander II. At that time, the reputation of Champagne was already growing in Russia, and the emperor asked the Louis Roederer estate to blend a cuvée just for him. But why Cristal? Forever fearful of being attacked or poisoned, Tsar Alexander II made a special request: for his champagne to be presented in a transparent bottle instead of the green glass bottles more common at the time. The bottle would also have to have a flat bottom. For its nobility, crystal was chosen, giving its name to the iconic cuvée. The first prestige cuvée in history, Cristal was initially produced exclusively for the Russian market. It was not until 1924 that Cristal began being sold all over the world, following the Russian revolution of 1917. Since then, only the crystal bottle has been replaced. The shape of the bottle has remained unchanged and it is still adorned by the imperial coat of arms. Today, this sparkling wine is one of the greatest champagnes in the world.
Cristal Champagne, a work of art made only in the greatest years
Cristal is an exceptional and rare cuvée, made only in the greatest of years. Like a work of art, this champagne takes form step by step, developing in the process a unique expression of its vintage. Made from a blend of Chardonnay (around 40%) and Pinot Noir (around 60%), this cuvée is above all a great wine that offers a pure expression of its chalky terroirs of origin. Côte des Blancs, the Grands Crus of Montagne de Reims and Vallée de la Marne… Cristal unites the greatest terroirs of Champagne. And because the best things take time, Cristal matures patiently for a minimum of 6 years in the cool, dark chalk cellars of the estate, before ageing an additional 8 months in the bottle after disgorgement.
Cristal by Louis Roederer, a symbol of harmony and purity
"A wine of pure pleasure and fine cuisine, Cristal is delicate and powerful, subtle and precise, all at the same time."
This is how the sumptuous cuvée is described by Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon, the highly respected and talented Chef de Caves of the estate.
Throughout its vintages, Cristal maintains this unique style, which makes the champagne so iconic. Its intense and expressive aromatic palette reveals a remarkable complexity through notes of citrus, white fruits and candied fruit. The bouquet is further enhanced by a delicate and elegant iodised minerality. This perfectly balanced champagne wraps the palate with its silky texture, offering an almost tactile sensation, revealing the finesse, power and purity of its limestone soils. And the energy of Cristal allows this exceptional champagne to evolve beautifully with age.
Exceptional vintages to discover
Casting the spotlight on Chardonnay, the 2005 vintage presents the unique aromatic characteristics that distinguish this noble white variety. Its elegance and precision are reflected in the complexity of the bouquet. Through a silky palate, the wine expresses itself fully, revealing a deep vinosity, delicious flavours, and a delicate effervescence upon an otherwise sleek body. Product of a sunny year, the 2006 vintage seduces with its ripeness and concentration, expressed on a full-bodied and refreshing palate. And the greatest vintage of Cristal made in the last 30 years, according to Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon, the Cristal 2008 presents an exceptional density and power, while also maintaining a great freshness.
Enter the effervescent world of Maison Louis Roederer and discover the dazzling Champagne Cristal...
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