Louis Roederer 2007 Cristal Brut 1.5L

Louis Roederer's 2007 Cristal stands as a testament to the artistry of Champagne-making, produced exclusively during the most exceptional vintages. Crafted from Chardonnay (43%) and Pinot Noir (57%) grapes at their pinnacle of ripeness, this Champagne undergoes an extensive aging process of 6 years in the venerable cellars of Louis Roederer. An additional 8 months of maturation post-dégorgement further refines its character. The result is a truly extraordinary wine, notable for its impeccable balance and refinement. Cristal unfurls on the palate with a luxurious silkiness and a medley of fruity aromas that dance in perfect harmony. Its enchanting complexity is complemented by a robust mineral quality, punctuated by nuances of white fruit and citrus notes. A wine of enduring character, Cristal is known for its remarkable aging potential, capable of preserving its freshness and unique personality for over two decades. This is a Champagne that captures the essence of exceptional craftsmanship and timeless elegance.

Robert Parker - 95 Points

"Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon calls Cristal "the first terroir cuvée of the Champagne." He furthers, "It’s not just Chardonnay or Pinot Noir, but the chalk that brings the ultimate finesse, length and precision of Cristal." Forty-five blocks with averaging age of 43-years-old, low-yielding vines form the base of Cristal, which is usually made of approximately 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay. Due to an early bud break (end of March) and the wet summer, the 2007 was picked at the end of August, so almost 100 days after the flowering instead of the normal 93-95 days. There is a bit less Pinot Noir than usual (57%) and accordingly, more Chardonnay (43%) in the 2007 Cristal. This Champagne comes along in a golden color and with a deep and matured, yet well-defined bouquet of ripe yellow fruits and honey notes. Full-bodied, round and very complex, the generous 2007 is a perfect mix of ripe fruit and precise minerality. It is a silky textured, pure and precise, as well as powerful and expressive Champagne. It has great tension and grip in the very long and persistent finish. Great expression of chalk. The 2007 was disgorged in 2015. The 2009 is to be released in September; the 2008 won't be in the market earlier than January 2018. Neither a 2010 nor a 2011 will be released, but a 2012."

Antonio Galloni - 97+  Points

"Long-time Chef de Caves Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon has produced yet another in a string of superb Champagnes with the 2007 Cristal. Rich, powerful and enveloping, the 2007 takes hold of all the senses and never lets up. The aromatics alone are captivating, but then the wine opens on the palate, revealing layer after layer of flavor to match a multi-dimensional, kaleidoscopic personality that will leave Champagne lovers weak at the knees. The 2007 is 58% Pinot Noir and 42% Chardonnay, which is to say a bit more Chardonnay-leaning than is the norm. The 2007 is striking today, but it should also age effortlessly for several decades. It is also without question one of the very finest new releases of the year. "