Louis Roederer Cristal

The origin of Louis Roederer’s ‘Cristal’ dates back to the historic Three Emperor’s dinner held in Paris on June 7th 1867. Attended by Wilhelm, King of Prussia and Russian Tsar Alexander, the 16 course meal served over 8 hours was prepared by French chef Adolphe Dugléré, who was instructed to make the most extravagant meal ever. The wine served that fateful evening was from the exalted 1847 vintage, produced by Roederer himself, and poured from a clear bottle with a flat punt to showcase the deep golden hue of the aged wine. So pleased was the King with his “exclusive” bottling that in 1876, ‘Cristal’ became the official palace wine. In the time since, ‘Cristal’ has become a Veblen good alongside Bugatti Sports Cars and Louis Vuitton Handbags. Although Jay-Z went on to promote Armand de Brignac, ‘Cristal’ was the original symbol of liquid luxury.

The 2009 ‘Cristal’ follows the traditional recipe of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay from Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards, aged for 6+ years, and only produced in the best vintages. Extended aging and lees contact imparts nutty, toasty and creamy flavors to the wine. In addition, one will encounter flavors of honey, orange peel, raspberry, hazelnut, and white chocolate on the palate, and with only 10 grams of residual sugar per liter, ‘Cristal’ finishes clean and dry.

With a customized wine accessory or personal gift message, the 2009 Roederer ‘Cristal’ is as much a statement as it is an unforgettable gift.