Description

Cristal was created by Louis Roederer in 1876 for Tsar Alexander II, hence its famous clear-glass bottle. Made only in the finest years from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grown in the house’s own grand cru vineyards, it is one of the great prestige cuvées of Champagne.

The vintage 1997. 1997 gave soft, approachable Champagnes, now mature and harmonious.

Fine, persistent mousse; citrus, white flowers and pear, then brioche, hazelnut and a chalky, saline minerality. With bottle age it develops honey, toasted almond, coffee and dried fruit while the texture becomes creamier.

Service & pairing. Serve at 9–11 °C in a white-wine glass rather than a flute, so the aromas can open. Superb with caviar, langoustines, turbot in beurre blanc, aged Parmigiano or simply as an aperitif.