Louis Roederer Cristal 1996
"...1996 Cristal, from a legendary vintage, does not disappoint... the 1996 is an insanely beautiful Cristal loaded with floral, perfumed fruit and vibrant minerality." eRobertParker.com
| Grape Blend | Pinot Noir 60%, Chardonnay 40% |
|---|---|
| Optimum Drinking | 2020-2030 |
| Winemaker | Jean-Baptiste Lecaillon |
| Organic | No |
| Reviewer Score | 95 |
| Reviewer | robertparker.com |
| Label Quality | Close to pristine. Some original gift boxes - please enquire. |
| SKU | 101340 |
| ABV | 12% |
Louis Roederer's Cristal 1996 is a legendary wine from a truly great Champagne vintage.
Regarded by many as the first prestige cuvée, Cristal was created for Alexander II of Russia in the late 19th century. As a result of the Tsar's fear of assassination the glass bottle was made clear so that he could see the bubbles and be reassured that there wasn't a bomb concealed within! The clear glass necessitates the anti-UV cellophane wrapper which prevents the deterioration of the wine in bottle.
Roederer's Champagnes are largely sourced from their own vineyards, which ensure that they complete control over the quality of fruit that goes into every single Champagne bottle.
"The estate's [Roederer's] 1996 Cristal, from a legendary vintage, does not disappoint...the 1996 is an insanely beautiful Cristal loaded with floral, perfumed fruit and vibrant minerality." robertparker.com
"A paradox. This has weight yet a sensation of weightlessness thanks to its seamless texture and harmony. Still firm and forceful yet elegant, offering citrus, pastry, biscuit and hazelnut notes enmeshed in the creamy texture. Great structure for aging." Wine Spectator