2014 was a challenging rollercoaster of a vintage that there wasn’t much enthusiasm for. However, those opinions are beginning to change, especially in light of the release of this biodynamic beauty. Just read what the critics are saying about Louis Roederer Cristal Brut 2014… 98 points, “The 2014 Cristal is another in a long line of gorgeous wines from Roederer and long-time Chef de Caves Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon. A dazzling, vibrant Champagne, the 2014 impresses with a stunning combination of fruit density and linear energy that brings to mind a hypothetical blend of 2012 and 2008… The 2014 Cristal is a riveting Champagne. Don’t miss it.” – Antonio Galloni’s Vinous 97 points, “An enlightened expression from a season of extremes, this has intensity, ripeness and depth of fruit that is underpinned by chalk soil-derived structure and freshness… Very complex, it strikes a natural balance and is very drinkable already, though will develop well for more than a decade in the cellar.” – James Suckling 96 points, “The 2014 Cristal is a terrific effort that transcends the vintage. Bursting from the glass with expressive aromas of ripe citrus fruit, nectarine, white flowers, freshly baked bread and subtle hints of honeycomb, it's medium to full-bodied, vinous and fleshy, with an exuberant core of fruit that's girdled by racy acids, resulting in a wine that's simultaneously chiselled and demonstrative, meaning that early appeal doesn't come at the expense of the requisite tension for long-term cellaring. Concluding with a long, aromatic and intensely chalky finish, it is a brilliant Champagne that will offer a broad drinking window.” – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate World-renowned Champagne critic Richard Juhlin says of Cristal: “Every vintage is stunning. Buy all the Roederer wines you come across.” Now created using entirely organic and biodynamic fruit, this is a seminal Champagne whatever the vintage. Established in 1776, Louis Roederer is one of the few remaining independent, family-owned Champagne houses. By 1876 the House had achieved such a reputation for quality that the second Louis Roederer was asked by Tsar Alexander II to create a new Champagne, Cristal, for the exclusive use of the Russian Tsars. Made exclusively from the best grapes of Louis Roederer’s own vineyards, which are all now biodynamically farmed and certified by Demeter. It's a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, of which 32% has been vinified in oak, further boosting the full, round body and texture that is a characteristic for the House style. As usual, this is something akin to sparkling Grand Cru Burgundy, expect a wine full of energy, warm brioche, zingy citrus, almond biscotti, apple crumble, praline, crisp pear, orange zest, forest floor, crunchy peach, chalk, blossom, nectarine, freshly baked bread, fig jam, a touch of something tropical and a racy grapefruit finish. Pair with lobster, smoked salmon, white truffles and the most decadent of risottos, or pop it in the cellar as this will age for years.
£42.67 per 100.00ml
