Louis Roederer : Cristal Rose 2006

A fresh, lively and smooth Rosé Champagne by Louis Roederer

The property

Founded in 1776 in Reims, the Louis Roederer Champagne House has remained family-owned and independent. After more than 200 years of existence, the Louis Roederer House is still in the hands of the same family. Today led by Frédéric Rouzaud, who represents the seventh generation of the lineage, the Louis Roederer House embodies the excellence of Champagne wines around the world thanks to cuvées crafted like a work of art.

The vineyard

With nearly 241 hectares of vineyards, the Louis Roederer House draws its strength from its extraordinary vineyard, composed only of Grands and Premiers Crus in the Marne Valley, the Montagne de Reims, and the Côte des Blancs. A true mosaic of terroirs, the vineyard of the Louis Roederer House is divided into 410 plots that reflect all the diversity of the soils of the Champagne.

The wine

Cristal Rosé 2006 is crafted from a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, with 20% of the wines vinified in oak barrels. This vintage showcases the intensity and complexity characteristic of the year, marked by significant water contrasts and a warm September following a cooler August.

The vintage

The 2006 vintage was characterized by hot weather and notable hydric contrasts. Following an unusually cool and rainy August, warm and dry conditions in September accelerated the grape maturation, resulting in rich and complex flavors.

Vinification and aging

Louis Roederer employs the saignée method, allowing a cold maceration lasting 5 to 8 days. The champagne is aged for an average of 6 years in the cellars and rests for an additional 8 months after disgorgement to achieve perfect balance. The dosage is adapted for each vintage, ranging from 8 to 10 g/l.

Blend

Pinot Noir (60%)
Chardonnay (40%)

Characteristics and tasting tips for Cristal Rosé 2006 from the Louis Roederer House

Tasting

Color
The wine exhibits a salmon pink color with brilliant golden reflections and a soft, consistent effervescence.

Nose
The bouquet is vibrant and summery, featuring fresh fruits with both sweet and slightly tart notes, such as red currant and vine peach. The concentration and maturity of the Pinot Noir are evident, revealing hints of raspberry liqueur alongside nuances of roasted almonds and gingerbread.

Palate
On the palate, Cristal Rosé 2006 presents a voluptuous attack that is intense yet surprisingly light. This concentrated fruit profile is supported by a chalky freshness and finely integrated, velvety tannins, enhancing the wine's precision and elegance. The overall impression is harmonious and seamlessly integrated, reflecting a natural fullness that is both refined and profound. Cristal Rosé 2006 beautifully expresses the ripe fruit character of the vintage against the chalky terroirs of the estate.