Cristal Champagne Late Release 2005

The “soft, delicate and pretty” first release of Cristal 2005 was praised by Wine Advocate “for its exceptional inner perfume and elegance”. The Late Release was held back in Louis Roederer’s cellars gaining additional richness, complexity and depth. 

2005 was a tricky year, but Louis Roederer’s Cristal has always transcended vintages. This expression came out at the same time as the immensely opulent 2002 Late Release but is a very different beast. Airy, perfumed and refreshing, it makes an incredible aperitif with its notes of apples, pears, peaches, lemon sorbet, jasmine, lime blossom, chamomile, orange zest and creamy churned Manuka honey on toast. Save your 2002 for the colder months and serve the summery 2005 Late Release on sunnier days.

World-renowned Champagne critic Richard Juhlin says of this Champagne producer: “Every vintage is stunning. Buy all the Roederer wines you come across.” Established in 1776, Louis Roederer is one of the few remaining independent, family-owned Champagne houses. By 1876 the House had achieved such a reputation for quality that the second Louis Roederer was asked by Tsar Alexander II to create a new Champagne, Cristal, for the exclusive use of the Russian Tsars. Made exclusively from the best grapes of Louis Roederer’s own vineyards, which are all organically farmed and many are in conversion to biodynamic. It is a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, of which 20% has been vinified in oak, giving the wine a full, round body and texture that is characteristic for the House style. Celebrate like a Tsar with this incredible bottle.