Origins
"La Rivière"
"La Côte"
Grape varieties
Wines in oak
Harvest
From 15 September to 1 October 2008
Dosage
This was a challenging year which gave us quite a few scares and which, in a grand finale, gave us what is undoubtedly one of the most glorious vintages of the last 20 years! 2008 reflects the exceptional and much sought-after natural balance of freshness and concentration of flavours
Cristal Rosé hails from 4 Grands Crus plots in Aÿ, Avize and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, set aside within Domaine Cristal in La Vallée de la Marne (also known as the vineyard of ""La Rivière"") and La Côte des Blancs. Created in 1974, this fine champagne brings us the purest expression of the chalk, creating energy, a captivating presence and ultimate finesse: the complete mastery of a champagne that is as fabulous as a fine perfume.
Using a combination of maceration and blending methods that are part of Louis Roederer’s unique infusion technique, this champagne is the result of a delicate and precise exercise requiring great skill and mastery. The Chardonnay juices are added to a maceration of Pinot noir grapes which then ferment together and integrate smoothly and harmoniously.
6 to 10 years ageing in the bottle, riddling exclusively by hand and a long rest after disgorgement all play a part in the crafting of a vintage Cristal. This is a champagne that is destined for high-end gastronomy, capable of creating the most refined and original food pairings, to be enjoyed at different stages of its life and maturity.
Tasting notes
A veritable whirlwind of flavours, powerful and intense, rich and fresh, complemented by hints of hazelnut and a silky texture, Cristal 2008 has all the qualities of the perfect champagne.
Marked by the very fine Pinots noirs, this champagne is stunningly youthful, with a remarkable finish, built over a chalky texture and lovely fresh zesty notes.
Cellar Master
Ageing potential
Cristal is an experience unlike any other, crafted in a manner that will allow it to reveal itself very gradually over time.
This outstanding champagne grows more glorious with every passing year, gaining in depth, finesse and aromatic complexity. The freshness of its youth evolves progressively to reveal more candied, spicy and saline aromas along with ever more delicate and refined bubbles.
It can be enjoyed in the purity and chalky freshness of its youth or can be laid down for a few more years or even decades in a cool, dark cellar, with its orange cellophane protecting it from light, where it will continue to evolve beautifully over time.
This wine has a promising future ahead of it and its destiny is in your hands!
