CRISTAL

2009 Cristal has really shut down since I tasted it this past spring, which is probably a very good thing for its potential longevity. The radiance and richness the 2009 showed just a few months ago is not all evident. Instead, the 2009 comes across as tightly wound and in need of considerable cellaring. I expect it will drink well for a period measured in decades rather than years. The 2009 has always been quite exuberant, but for now, it looks the wine is going to need a bit of time before it is at its best. Readers should note that Roederer has decided to release the 2009 ahead of the 2008. Drinking range: 2021 - 2049 Rating: 96+ Antonio Galloni, www.vinous.com (Dec 2016)

This has floral and peach notes with a touch of spice and great purity of fruit. Such style and elegance! It's a wine that always needs age, so this is very young still. I'd cellar it for two to three years at least so it can develop more. It could make a delicious combination with a dish of red mullet fillets roasted with green olive, pancetta and basil. Drinking range: 2016 - 2034 Gerard Basset OBE MW MS, Decanter (Oct 2016)

A very rich and full-bodied Cristal that harks back to 2006 or 1989 in style. It's round and rich, which underlies the ripeness of the vintage. Lots of dried-apple and pineapple character with bread dough and flan flavors. The bubbles are so fine you almost don't notice them. Very vinous style. Drink now. Rating: 97 James Suckling, www.jamessuckling.com (Oct 2016)

Pale straw colour with gold and amber lights. Persistent, brilliant, fine and lively bubbles. A subtle bouquet, both discreet and promising, with citrus notes and hints of golden fruit and honeysuckle. As the wine opens in the glass, notes of vanilla emerge, with toasted hazelnut, hints of liquorice and even a touch of cinnamon. The palate is structured, energetic and sculpted. The first impression of a ripe and silky texture is amplified by a chalky, crisp brightness and a herbal freshness followed by a succession of delicious and colourful textures perfectly integrated within the lightness and finesse of the wine. The bright personality of Cristal then appears, simultaneously pure and crisp, with a finish focused once again on chalk, energy and a fine texture. In this Cristal 2009 there is a genuine force of life, a sheer delight, and at the same time great depth and crystalline purity. (Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon, Chef de Cave at Louis Roederer) Winemaker's notes (Jul 2016)