2006 Champagne Louis Roederer, Cristal, Brut

Louis Roederer, a wonderful family-owned Champagne House founded in 1776, has a tremendous reputation for quality. In 1876 the House created the now famous Cristal, at the request of Alexander II. This once intensely sweet wine is now one of the most luscious, deeply flavoured Champagnes available.

From the warm 2006 vintage, this has arich bouquet with hints of zesty fruit, lilies and light toasted hazelnuts. As it develops in the glass the fruit aromas become more intense and complex. The palate confirms the delicate fruit with a deep, ripe flavour and silky texture, finishing crisply with a pure, mineral balance. As a young wine this is already deliciously balanced and charming, and promises to be a magnificent Champagne in full maturity.

Berry Bros. & Rudd