1996 Louis Roederer Cristal Millesime Brut Champagne France - 1.5L Magnum

Winemaker Notes
The jewel of the House, the vintage Cristal, the most beautiful expression of Champagne, was created in 1876 for the Tsar Alexander II. It remains faithful to the inspiration of origin, namely embodying elegance and purity.

A gleaming pale gold color, with a fine foam and an elegant cord of bubbles. It has an eloquent, intense, delicate nose, with almond flavors, and constant fresh white flowers. It has a full, consistent attack, with remarkable balance, near gossamer-like smoothness, and an extraordinary length. Serve with the more refined dishes: caviar, fish, and shellfish such as lobster, and spiny lobster.

Cristal comes from the strictest criteria of development, which require a drastic selection of the cru, villages, grapes, and finally, of the wines. Only Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays from the House's ten most famous crus are retained.

Press
Rated 95 Points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate