Louis Roederer, Cristal 2014

The 2014 Cristal is a dark horse, a wine built along linear lines rather than opulence, and from a year that generated very little enthusiasm at the time. A cold, wet summer and attacks from the Suzuki fly at harvest were among the challenges producers dealt with. And yet, the best wines turned out far better than initially expected. Cristal is a terrific example. It exudes energy and tension backed by strong saline accents that confer vibrancy. Stylistically, it reminds me of the 2004 in its build. The long, nuanced finish is a thing of beauty. In this tasting, the 2014 only suffers a bit because of some of the more overt vintages that surround it, but it’s a gorgeous Cristal. Dosage is 7 grams per liter. Disgorged: 2022

• Drinking Window: 2024 - 2054
• Reviewer Name: Antonio Galloni
• Review Date: December 2023