Thanks to Yolanda for sharing this exclusive rose!                           Photo by Johnny

Louis Roederer Cristal Champagne Brut Rose 2002 (750ml)

Based on a saignee of Pinot Noir from Grand Cru Ay (two hectares of vines in the vineyards of 'Bonotte-Pierre-Robert' & 'La Cote du Moulin'), representing 70% of final blend, to which 30% Chardonnay from Grands Crus Avize & Le Mesnil is added.

Tasted in Aug., 2012

Cristal Rose is the most expensive & exclusive Rose Champagne. Fortunately, it is also one of the most serious and sophisticated.

Breathed in bottle for 20 minutes before serving.

So pale in color! Thus hard to imagine it's largely based on a saignee of Pinot.

Yet the strikingly intense red berry perfume removes your doubt. And the assertive expression of saline minerality makes it even more adorable for the serious signature of terroir.

On the attack, palate-staining sweetness of berry fruits enhanced by mineral saltiness. Then the vivacious, energetic mousse lifts it up to effortless poise.

This clearly demands lengthy cellaring to reveal its true complexity. But its serious depth is already memorable.