Louis Roederer Cristal Brut Millésimé Champagne – 750ml
The Original Prestige Cuvée: A Jewel of Purity and Precision.
Cristal is more than a Champagne; it is a symbol of ultimate luxury and a legend born from a Tsar’s decree. First created in 1876 for the private consumption of Tsar Alexander II of Russia, this 750ml bottle represents the pinnacle of the Louis Roederer estate. Encased in its iconic, crystal-clear, flat-bottomed bottle, Cristal is a vintage-only Champagne, crafted exclusively in years when the harvest achieves perfect maturity.
A Royal Heritage: The story of Cristal is unique. The Tsar, wary of assassination attempts, requested a special bottle that was both transparent and flat-bottomed to ensure no hidden threats. Louis Roederer commissioned a Flemish glassmaker to create this revolutionary lead-crystal bottle, and the first prestige cuvée was born. It remains a testament to a time of opulence and a benchmark for elite Champagne production.
An Expression of Pure Chalk: Cristal is created from a masterful blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, sourced only from the most exceptional Grand Cru vineyards owned by the Roederer estate. Today, these vineyards are cultivated using biodynamic principles, enhancing the wine’s connection to its chalky terroir. This dedication to the land results in a Champagne of extraordinary depth, purity, and a signature chalky minerality that is both powerful and elegant. After bottling, the wine is aged for six years in the cellars and rests for a further eight months after disgorgement to perfect its maturity.
Tasting Profile of a Cristal Vintage: While each vintage possesses a unique character, Cristal is universally celebrated for its flawless harmony and crystalline purity.
- Nose: A complex and intense bouquet of fresh citrus, white flowers, and crisp stone fruits, with developing notes of toasted almond and brioche.
- Palate: A silky, textural palate that is both powerful and refined. A chalky freshness underpins a symphony of concentrated fruit flavours, leading to a finish of incredible persistence and precision.
- Finish: A long, saline, and elegant finish that speaks to its noble origin.
The Ultimate Statement: To open a bottle of Cristal is to make an unparalleled statement of celebration and refined taste. It is reserved for life’s most defining moments, a globally recognised icon of success and luxury. Whether as a prestigious gift or the centrepiece of a grand celebration here in Halesowen, Cristal remains one of the rarest and most coveted wines in the world.