The 2016 Louis Roederer Cristal Brut is a distinguished blend of 58% Pinot Noir and 42% Chardonnay from Champagne, combining concentrated fruit with chalky precision and exceptional finesse. Created in 1876 for Tsar Alexander II, Cristal remains Louis Roederer’s flagship cuvée, produced only in selected vintages. The 2016 draws on 32 vineyard plots, including sites in Aÿ, Verzenay, Verzy, Avize, Cramant and Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. Approximately 31% of the wine was raised in oak, with no malolactic fermentation and a dosage of 7g/L, preserving the freshness and definition that underpin its generous texture.
The 2016 offers lemon oil, white peach, mirabelle plum and white flowers, complemented by buttery pastry, subtle toasted notes and a pronounced chalky character. A cool, wet spring gave way to a warm, dry summer, producing ripe, silky Pinot Noir alongside more incisive, saline Chardonnay. William Kelley awarded it 97 Points, praising its concentration, vibrant acidity and long mineral finish, while recommending further cellaring. Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW awarded 98+ Points, highlighting its layered fruit, spice and finely integrated acidity. These assessments capture the vintage’s particular appeal: substantial flavour carried by a delicate mousse, precise structure and persistent freshness.
