Tastings, winery:
7 Rue Lasnier, Aÿ-Champagne, Grand Est, FranceExperimental phase: initial rating derived from official awards and critic reviews
Falstaff - 99
Louis Roederer Cristal Vinothèque 1996 is an exceptionally rare and prestigious cuvée, representing the pinnacle of Cristal champagne. This edition is the result of carefully selected bottles that have aged in the cellars of Louis Roederer for 20 years in pursuit of perfect harmony.
The 1996 vintage is considered a classic in Champagne, with weather conditions that allowed for exceptional elegance, a beautifully fresh structure, and remarkable aromatic complexity. After a cold, gray winter, the year 1996 was marked by low rainfall during the growing season, leading to small yields and concentrated fruit.
This extended aging period contributed to the wine’s exceptional complexity and harmony. The wine’s characteristics include a bright golden-yellow color with delicate amber highlights and fine, subtle bubbles. The aroma is exceptionally intense, vibrant, concentrated, and complex, with notes of ripe pear, apple, apricot, candied lemon zest, yuzu, and orange peel.
Louis Roederer is one of the most prestigious and oldest independent Champagne houses, synonymous with luxury, tradition, and innovation. Founded in 1776 in the heart of Champagne, in the city of Reims, this family-run house has been nurturing the art of producing exceptional Champagnes for centuries, captivating connoisseurs worldwide.
The true rise of the house began in 1833, when Louis Roederer took over the family business and introduced a revolutionary approach—unlike other producers who purchased grapes, he decided to own and cultivate his own vineyards. This decision allowed him complete control over quality, terroir, and the unique style of his Champagnes, establishing the Louis Roederer brand’s distinctive signature.