Cristal 1995 Louis Roederer

Professional reviews

James Suckling (97)

From the family collection, disgorged ten years after harvest, slightly lower than original dosage. Shows some malolactic honeyed character (rare in Cristal at 20-25%), a cool late September harvest with a poor set and high millerandage in the vineyard. This shows more dominant chardonnay on the nose with sweet honey and nougat, some dried lime citrus too, it also has an earthy side and some deep spice. The palate has almost cognac-like fruits, toasted brioche and raisin bread flavours, very assertive, concentrated, a liqueur-like Champagne that has a lot of potential and great length.

Jancis Robinson (18)

Intriguing, super-complex nose with a deep, verging on orangey hue. Umami seaweed character on the nose combining with toasty/marmalade notes – sounds odd (and not what I’d expect from Cristal) but so interesting. Light, fresh, bright palate, still with plenty of acidity, which carries the abundance of leesy flavours so well. Certainly a fine, thought-provoking wine. (AWH)

Falstaff (96)

Medium greenish-yellow, delicate golden glints, fine, lively mousse. Fragrantly fresh pineapple, a hint of mango, hawthorn, white flowers, a little hint of kumquat, nuances of white currants. Taut, white tropical fruit on the palate, bracing acidity, citrus undertones of acacia honey, saline-kissed finish, perfectly matured, youthful verve. Delicate nutty-oily toasty aromas on the finish, very good length, and a very long future ahead.