Louis Roederer Brut Premier NV
In the early 2000s Louis Roederer Champagne unwittingly made headlines when ‘Cristal’ was briefly celebrated by high-profile hip hop artists. The love affair ended abruptly when a dismissive comment by Roederer’s managing director, Frederic Rouzaud, was published. However, this mini crisis barely dented the reputation of this revered house which was founded in 1776.
Foresight & fortitude
Louis Roederer inherited the house in 1833 and committed to identifying and acquiring the best vineyard land, an unusual strategy as, at that time, farming grapes held little value. But his foresight paid dividends and in 1876 he crafted the first ever prestige cuvée named ‘Cristal’, specifically for Tsar Alexander of Russia. Sadly, more than half of the vineyards were destroyed during WWI, however with typical determination they rebuilt. Roederer now owns 240 hectares of vineyard encompassing 410 parcels across a range of crus and varietals. They remain fiercely independent and deeply committed to crafting exceptional wines, producing three million bottles annually. To ensure continuity of style and quality during periods of uncertainty, Roederer has created a signature blend from multiple vintages comprising 40% pinot noir, 40% chardonnay and 20% pinot meunier. Aged for three years before disgorgement, this blend is labelled Brut Premier and is Cuisine’s top Champagne over $100 for 2019.
A classic style that is fresh and energetic yet powerfully complex. Warm toasty, yeasty aromas lead to rich flavours that are layered and creamy. A long structural line and textural finish adds to the sensual architecture that is seductive and delicious.