Champagne Brut Cristal 2013 Louis Roederer "Grand Cru" 750ml

Description: Louis Roederer was established in 1827 by Alsace born Louis Roederer. After the Napoleonic wars Roederer built a relationship selling to the Romanoff family of Russia. Then and now Cristal has been bottled in a clear bottle at the request of the Tsar of Russian. This would in effect give transparency to safeguard against a plot to kill the king. The Roederer and Bouzaud families have kept control of its company since being established. Widow Camille Olry-Roederer guided the house during the depression and her keen business mind guided the house to purchase as many Grand Cru vineyards in Montagne de Reims, Marne Valley, and the best chalky vineyards in Cote des Blancs. Cristal is probably the most sought after prestige Cuvee in the World. Camille Olry- Roederer's grandson has been in control of the estate for the last 40 years and earned the nickname, "King of Champagne".

Fortunately, the summer of 2013 was glorious with plenty of sunshine, record high temperatures and very low rainfall, ideal for the ripening of the Pinot noir and Chardonnay. The temperatures were cool for the October harvest and the resulting wines are elegant and fresh - the signs of a "classic" vintage. Powerful and complex on the palate, revealing a mixture of yellow fruit (mirabelle plum), juicy, ripe fruits (nectarine), citrus peel (candied orange) and finely-roasted nuts (hazelnut). The nose is simultaneously powdery and sweet, with elegant, chalky notes. Gentle, tactile and full-bodied on the palate. The bubbles create a gentle, vibrating sensation, then the wine becomes soft and dense. However, it is the chalky freshness that quickly sets the tone: the Champagne becomes energetic and intense, giving the wine an elegant yet powerful texture. Fine, textured tannins reveal a poised and vinous dimension to the wine. The finish is savory and saline.