"Louis Roederer - Cristal 2012. Crafted from a blend of Pinot Noir (60%) and Chardonnay (40%), with 32% vinified in oak, this is a powerful, fine, and concentrated champagne. It possesses a deep, vinous character typical of Cristal's luminous nobility, yet is paired with a chalky freshness that pierces and extends the body to deliver a slender form and immense finesse. The 2012 vintage is among the most challenging and delicate ever witnessed in Champagne. The low yields, resulting from climatic adversities combined with late-season continental conditions, allowed for a rare and epic level of ripeness. This gave life to rich, full-bodied, and structured wines, worthy of the greatest Champagne vintages. The bouquet is rich and complex, revealing aromas of tangy and candied fruits (lemon) and citrus notes blended with pollen (white flowers), toasted hazelnut, and Madagascar vanilla. With aeration, the bouquet expands and is enriched by sweet pastry notes and smoky hints developed during bottle aging. On the palate, it is inviting, concentrated, and chalky all at once. The incredible tension and aromatic precision are perfectly chiseled. The attack is powerful, elegant, and concentrated, revealing the silky and enveloping structure typical of the 2012 Pinot Noir ripeness. The finish is long and of rare concentration. Ratings & Awards: James Suckling: 98/100 Robert Parker: 97/100"