Cristal champagne is an iconic prestige cuvee, created by Champagne Louis Roederer in 1876 for Tsar Alexander II of Russia. Today, it is regarded as one of the finest champagnes in the world and is always a vintage champagne, produced only in the best vintages. Cristal is a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, with 32% vinified in oak casks, which lends it a unique complexity and depth of flavor. Cristal is also among the most age-worthy champagnes in the world, with the most recent release, the 2008 vintage, receiving an unprecedented 100-point score from multiple critics.
Cristal Rose is another variation of the prestige cuvee and is a blend of 55% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay, aged for six years in the cellars. Cristal Vinotheque is aged “sur lattes” for around ten years and 10 years after dosage, while Cristal Rose Vinotheque is made of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay and aged for 20 years - 10 years on lees and 10 years after disgorgement.
Cristal is made from 45 plots in 7 Grand Crus across Verzenay, Verzy, and Aÿ, and its grapes are sourced from Louis Roederer's own vineyards, giving them complete control over how the grapes are grown and their quality. This results in a champagne that is a true reflection of the unique chalk soils in the region and is a study in terroir, elegance, purity, and power.
Cristal's signature gold cellophane is designed to protect the champagne from UV light penetration due to the clear glass, and it should be kept on the bottle until it is served. Cristal's iconic gold label and capsule are not just a nod to the nineteenth-century colour coding system but also signify the champagne's absolute pinnacle of quality.
In summary, Cristal is a champagne made for true lovers of fine wine, and its unique blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, combined with the expertise and dedication of the winemakers at Champagne Louis Roederer, make it an exceptional and highly sought-after prestige cuvee. It is truly a champagne for special occasions and one that rewards patience with its exceptional aging potential.