Cristal 2004 to launch in September
Champagne Louis Roederer is preparing to launch Cristal 2004 this September, somewhat earlier than many other luxury cuvees in this vintage.
Speaking to The Drinks Business, head winemaker Jean-Baptiste Lecaillon said waiting for another year or two will make no difference to their customers' understanding of the cuvee, emphasising that it is built for longevity.
"It is really at its best when it's 20 to 25 years old," he told the news provider.
Describing what wine lovers can expect from Cristal 2004, Mr Lecaillon added: "I think its nose will be more nutty, more toastiness will come out and on the palate it will become more wine-y."
He also predicted strong demand for the Cristal, saying that availability is likely to last for one year only.
According to the Wall Street Journal, representatives of well-known Champagne houses such as Louis Roederer, Pol Roger and Duval-Leroy have recently been investigating vineyards in the UK, as milder summers are making the climate more favourable for production.