# Cristal (2016)

- **Producer:** Louis Roederer
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €313
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, acacia, lemon, mirabelle plum, white flowers, pastry, toasted bread, brioche, biscuit, iodine

## About this wine

Louis Roederer Cristal 2016 is a prestigious Champagne from the Champagne region of France, produced by the independent, family-owned Louis Roederer house. Created originally for Tsar Alexander II, Cristal is exclusively produced in years of exceptional grape maturity. The 2016 vintage is a blend of 58% Pinot Noir and 42% Chardonnay, sourced from 32 specific vineyard plots. This vintage is notable for its purity and refinement, a result of the unique weather patterns of 2016 which favored intense fruit character in Pinot Noir and saline precision in Chardonnay. The house's winemaking philosophy emphasizes artisanal viticulture and respect for terroir, with the 2016 being the fifth edition made entirely from biodynamically farmed grapes.

## Interesting facts

- Cristal was first created in 1876 for Tsar Alexander II of Russia.
- It's only made in years when grapes reach perfect maturity.
- The 2016 is the fifth edition made entirely from biodynamically farmed grapes.
- Cristal is aged for six years in cellars, plus eight months post-disgorgement.

## Food pairing

The wine's vibrant acidity and minerality cut through the richness of seafood and creamy sauces, while its refined texture complements delicate proteins. The subtle fruit notes can bridge with fruit-based sauces or accompaniments.

## Wine making process

Louis Roederer Cristal 2016 is produced using the traditional method. Thirty-one percent of the base wines are aged in French oak barrels, and malolactic fermentation is not performed to preserve freshness. The wine undergoes an extensive aging process, with six years in Louis Roederer's cellars and an additional eight months after disgorgement. The grapes are harvested between September 15th and October 1st. The producer emphasizes artisanal viticulture, eco-friendly practices, and biodynamic composts, with the 2016 vintage being entirely from biodynamically farmed grapes.