Louis Roederer : Collection 242

A bright, harmonious Champagne, layering well-cut acidity and a chalky underpinning with flavors of white cherry, crunchy pineapple, green almond and beeswax. The finely detailed mousse carries hints of saffron and spring blossom on the lingering finish. Drink now through 2024. 19,537 cases imported.

Aromas of cooked apple, bread dough and lemon tart follow through to a full body with round, delicious fruit and a rich, flavorful finish. Yet, it remains tight and fine with lovely, compressed bubbles. New energy and freshness. Medium- to full-bodied with layers of fruit and vivid intensity. 42% chardonnay, 36% pinot noir and 22% pinot meunier. 8 grams dosage. Four years on lees. A new-format non-vintage that designates the year of the 242nd harvest, 2017, plus reserve wine from 2009, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016. Drink or hold.

This is the first in a new series of nonvintage Champagnes that replaces the producer's well-known Brut Premier. Based around the 2017 vintage and blended with wines from six other years, the wine is dry while also having a rich, toasty character alongside mineral, white fruit and spice flavors. Drink now.

Based on the 2017 vintage, Roederer’s NV Brut Collection 242 continues to drink very well, offering up aromas of pear, orange zest, white flowers, almonds and hazelnuts. Medium to full-bodied, ample and fleshy, with racy acids and a bright, saline finish, it’s a great success in a challenging base year.