2014 Louis Roederer Cristal Millesime Brut, Champagne, France

Louis Roederer’s fine taste and excellence have been celebrated since 1876 when he was asked to create Champagne for Tzar Alexander II of Russia. And so, he created the ultimate symbol of elegance and luxury, Cristal Champagne. The centerfold of Roederer’s philosophy and wine is the grape: he’s been one of the first to acquire the best lands for vineyards, purposing specific regions for the specific variety of grape, getting the best quality a variety can give. Cristal is only made during the years that the Chardonnay (60%) and Pinot Noir (40%) grapes reach perfect maturity. A 2014 Cristal vintage, perfected still from the time of Tzar, has been called “Weather Waltz” by the house. The grapes matured in diverse weather conditions and weren’t sure to survive, but were saved by unusually warm September, which allowed the house to harvest the grapes late, capturing the sunshine into the grape. Aged for 6 years in House’s cellars and then left for another 8 months, this silky Champagne is in a league of its own. Grab your bottle and enjoy like a Tzar!