2016 - Louis Roederer, Cristal

The 2016 Cristal is a blend of 58% Pinot Noir and 42% Chardonnay with 7 grams per liter of dosage. No malo-lactic was performed here, and 31% of the base wines were aged in French oak. The nose begins with bright red berry notes of fresh raspberries and strawberries before opening out to a complex undercurrent of saffron, white chocolate, talc, baker’s yeast, and emerging wafts of citron blossom and pear tart. The palate is very dry and spicy, not needing even a touch more sweetness thanks to the abundance of ripe berry and citrus flavors, delivering beautifully knit acidity and typically tiny, persistent bubbles. It finishes with notes of effervescent chalkiness and saffron flowers, leaving you reaching for another sip.

The 2016 Cristal is a gracious, elegant Champagne, as it has always been. Floral accents with light tropical overtones distinguish a Cristal that is especially lifted in style. The 2016 is a delicate, restrained Cristal built more on finesse than power. It's a very fine effort in an extremely difficult year. Saline, chalky notes extend the effortless finish. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged: July 2024.