The flagship of the Louis Roederer House, the Cristal cuvée, was created in 1876. Made from 55% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay from the Grands Crus of the Montagne de Reims, the Vallée de la Marne and the Côte des Blancs, Cristal 2006 was aged for 5 years in the cellar plus 8 months of rest after disgorgement. A vintage with a remarkable balance between acidity and ripe fruit. The flavors of apricot and grapefruit are round, juicy and rich in the mouth, with a very nice minerality. The bottle is a replica of the old crystal bottle reserved for Tsar Alexander II in 1876. Rich and convivial as well at the table, along a meal as on an aperitif. It is a very beautiful wine which will improve with time.