Louis Roederer : Cristal 2004

A captivating champagne of minerality and aromatic richness

The estate

Founded in 1776 in Reims, the House of Champagne Louis Roederer has remained family-owned and independent. After more than 200 years of history, the Louis Roederer House is still in the hands of the same family. Now led by Frédéric Rouzaud, who represents the seventh generation of the line, the Louis Roederer House embodies the excellence of Champagne wines worldwide through cuvées crafted like works of art.

The vineyard

With nearly 241 hectares of vines, the Louis Roederer House draws its strength from its extraordinary vineyard, made up exclusively of Grands and Premiers Crus in the Vallée de la Marne, the Montagne de Reims and the Côte des Blancs. A true mosaic of terroirs, the Louis Roederer House vineyard is divided into 410 parcels, reflecting the full diversity of the soils of Champagne.

The wine

An iconic cuvée of the house, first created in 1876 for the Tsar of Russia, Cristal is crafted from 45 exceptional lieux-dits, spread across 7 Grands Crus of the Montagne de Reims, the Vallée de la Marne and the Côte des Blancs.

The vintage

The year 2004 was marked by cool temperatures and a water deficit despite a rainy, cool August. The dry, sunny conditions of September were ideal for fine-tuning ripeness. The harvested grapes combine balance and freshness.

Vinification and ageing

Vinification, carried out in oak for 20%, is accompanied by weekly bâtonnage. No malolactic fermentation. This exceptional cuvée benefits on average from 5 years of ageing in the cellars and an 8-month rest after disgorgement. Its dosage is between 8 and 10 g/l depending on the vintage.

Blend

Cristal 2004 by Louis Roederer is the result of a blend of 55% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay.

Tasting notes and serving suggestions for Cristal 2004 by Louis Roederer

Tasting

Appearance
Cristal 2004 reveals a brilliant pale yellow color, adorned with delicate amber highlights. The extremely fine bubbles deliver a persistent effervescence.

Nose
The first nose surprises with the expression of a remarkably intense bouquet, revealing aromas of white fruits and citrus, underscored by bright minerality. On the second nose, more candied notes with toasted accents emerge through gourmet aromas of great finesse.

Palate
On the palate, Cristal 2004 offers a nectar of remarkable creaminess, characterized by a generous attack with flavors of beautifully juicy yellow fruits. A lovely minerality weaves through, lending the bouquet a definite harmony.