Louis Roederer Cristal Brut 2016 Vintage

Louis Roederer Cristal 2016 is the latest expression of the house's iconic prestige cuvée, originally crafted in 1876 for Tsar Alexander II of Russia. Sourced exclusively from 32 biodynamically farmed plots across seven Grand Cru villages—Verzenay, Verzy, Beaumont-sur-Vesle, Aÿ, Avize, Mesnil-sur-Oger, and Cramant—this vintage reflects the estate's commitment to terroir and meticulous viticulture. The 2016 vintage is characterized by its purity, tension, and remarkable aging potential.

Tasting Notes:

Appearance: Bright, shiny yellow hue with fine, slow-moving bubbles.

Aroma: Intense and precise bouquet featuring white flowers (acacia), roasted citrus (lemons), ripe yellow fruits (peaches, mirabelle plums), and subtle iodized, powdery, and roasted overtones from yeast autolysis.

Palate: Soft and delicate entry with concentrated, juicy, and ripe fruit flavors. The tactile bubbles are perfectly integrated, offering a saline and chalky texture. Notes of wheat and oyster shell emerge, leading to a crisp, saline, and iodized finish with a long, chalky, crystalline crescendo.

Serving Suggestions: Cristal 2016 is best enjoyed in a tulip-shaped Champagne glass to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and fine mousse. Ideal pairings include; Caviar or oysters, Delicate seafood dishes like poached lobster or scallops, Light poultry dishes with creamy sauces & Aged cheeses such as Comté or Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Aging Potential: While approachable now, Cristal 2016 will continue to develop greater complexity & depth over the next two decades, rewarding those who choose to cellar it.

Accolades:

98 Points – James Suckling: "Wonderfully pure fruit aromas... concentrated yet gentle... impressive resolution and integration.

98 Points – Jeb Dunnuck: "Transparent and complex... shimmering and electric wine with fantastic detail.

98 Points – Wine Enthusiast: "Stunning balance and poise between richness and concentration... will age well for at least 20 years.

97 Points – Wine Advocate: "Taut, incisive rendition... serious concentration, pure core of fruit, and a long, intensely mineral finish.

96 Points – Wine Spectator: "Pronounced minerality... beautiful integration and a refined, lacy mousse.

Technical Details:

Bottle Size: 750ml

ABV: 12,5%

Grape Composition: 58% Pinot Noir, 42% Chardonnay.

Vinification: 31% of the base wines are vinified in oak; no malolactic fermentation.

Dosage: 7 g/L.

Harvest Period: September 15th to October 1st, 2016.