Louis Roederer, Cristal Brut 1996 (4 MAG)

Louis Roederer, Cristal Brut 1996

Levels into the neck

61% Pinot Noir, 39% Chardonnay and a low 3% oak fermented as they found that the oak did not integrate well with the wine this year. In 2009, a wonderful, winey, nutty nose. Then the vanillin kicks in. Unbelievably seductive. A totally honied, concentrated taste, with volume, acidity and true vinosity. A touch of cloves comes with air. A phenomenal keeper. Nougatine is a strong element. The finish has orangey notes, a real feature of top Reims houses (also found in Krug), with the most wonderful crisp sign-off. In 2010, I tasted a bottle disgorged in September 2006 as part of their Collection programme. Yellow peaches and apricots on the nose, briary and brioche-like. So winey and with so much vinosity. One senses the power and concentration. That orangey taste is very much present as well as the great fresh attack and crispness. Serena Sutcliffe, MW

WA 95

4 mags (cn)

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