Louis Roederer Cristal Champagne (75cl)

Cristal is the prestige cuvée of Louis Roederer, created in 1876 for Tsar Alexander II of Russia and released more widely in 1945. It is still bottled in clear, flat-bottomed crystal, a design that came from the Tsar's security requirements. It is a Brut Champagne blending grand cru Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the house's estate vineyards. It spends a minimum of five years on lees before disgorgement, and a small share of reserve wines from earlier vintages is added. The nose shows stone fruit, hazelnut, brioche, white flowers and citrus zest. The palate is silky, rich and creamy, with dried fruit, minerality and brioche. The finish is very long and elegant, with a mineral edge.