Thanks to Johnny for sharing such classic cuvee!

Louis Roederer Cristal 1997 Brut Champagne (750ml) 

*55% Pinot Noir from Verzenay, Verzy, Aÿ, Beaumont-sur-Vesle and Mareuil-sur-Aÿ;

  45% Chardonnay from Le Mesnil, Avize & Cramant; all from estate-owned vines at least  

  25 years of age;

*between 15 and 25 percent, varing from vintage to vintage, of the base wines are fermented in 

  large, 6,000-liter oak foudres to enhance the texture & complexity; the rest of the base wines

  are fermented in stainless steel vats;

*no malolactic fermentation

Crystalline lemon robe, still with hints of green. Passionate fireworks of many tiny bubbles.

Immediate class & breed on the nose, with a sensual, creamy gown wrapping up the delicious notes of mandarine orange, lemon, honey & vannila. With more aeration, subtle yet precise nuances of smoke & toast are revealed. The overall impression of the bouquet is aristocratic refinement & leisurely confidence.

The palate is, as one can expect, even more impressive. Vigorous, crisp bubbles push forward the pinpoint acidity & stony minerality to you on the entry, giving a real punch! When you are still dazzled by the attack, the mid palate already expands, filling and caressing your taste buds with layers of creamy, cushiony, mouthwatering sour-sweet fruit (mandarine orange & honeyed lemon) & croissant. This is followed by a finale of clarity: crystalline chalk & grapefruit peel. The impression from attack, mid palate to aftertaste is from puissance to grace, and to precision.

Passionate, joyful, loving & graceful. This is irresistible!

With time & as it gradually warms up, the aroma grows heady & oily, while the palate also takes on an extra dimension of unctuousness. The partial oak effect is now in full display, interacting with the purity of fruit. Intellectually engaging.

While 97 might not be truly great, this is very personal & satisfying. There is a touching sense of finesse & grace here.