Category:
 
Sparkling Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Champagne
Producer:
 
Louis Roederer
Label Name:
 
Cristal Vinotheque (Gift Box)
Vintage:
 
2000
Country:
 
France
Region:
 
Champagne (Reims; principal crus: Ay, Avize, Mesnil‑sur‑Oger)
Volume:
 
1500ml
ABV:
 
12%
Grape(s):
 
Pinot Noir 58%, Chardonnay 42%
Method:
 
Blend (58% PN/42% CH); 24% vinified in oak, no malolactic fermentation. Aged 11 years sur lattes, 5 years sur pointes, disgorged and rested ~4 years; dosage ~8 g/L.
Acidity:
 
5
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
4
Length:
 
5
Aroma Intensity:
 
5
Best Temperature:
 
8-10
Tasting Note:
 
Bright golden; aromas of mandarin, white flowers, toasted hazelnut, nougat and honey. Silky, saline palate with yellow orchard fruit, brioche and subtle spice. Powerful, refined texture and a very long, sapid finish.
Food Pairing:
 
Oysters, caviar, lobster, smoked salmon, roast chicken, creamy poultry terrine; sushi, sashimi, tempura, Peking duck, Cantonese dim sum.
Vineyard Info:
 
Louis Roederer, family-owned since 1776; Cristal created for Tsar Alexander II. Uses estate-owned Grand Cru vineyards; many sites farmed organically. Vinothèque is a late-release, cellar-aged Cristal program.
Awards/Ratings:
 
William Kelley (Robert Parker/Wine Advocate) 95 pts (2021); Decanter 95; Wine & Spirits 94; Vinous ~92; widely praised in specialist press for length and balance