2005 Cristal
By Louis Roederer
2005 Cristal from Louis Roederer
Capturing the sublime essence of an exceptional vintage, the 2005 Cristal from Louis Roederer, akin to an orchestra of full-bodied notes and delicate undertones, makes a confident statement in the realm of refined wines. This exquisite Champagne not only serves as a testament to the legendary prowess of its revered Peterhouse-based vintner, Louis Roederer, but also elucidates the outstanding virtues of the hallowed 2005 vintage.
Medley of Elegance and Power: A Fine Wine Par Excellence
The harmonious concurrence of the climatic conditions in 2005 enabled Louis Roederer to craft this marvelous and intriguing iteration of Cristal. The cold spring that year brought forth an intensity in the grapes that is profoundly expressed in the structure and depth of this charismatic vintage. Occasionally overshadowed by its predecessors, the 2005 version nevertheless stands on an exalted pedestal of its own among knowledgeable wine investors.
It is a sparkling testament where elegance meets power, holding its own amidst the robust lineage of Cristal creations. Exhibiting a fascinating resonance between opulent fruitiness and crystalline clearness, the structure is held together by its impressive acid levels which give it a remarkable sustainable lifespan.
The 2005 Vintage: Underrated Majesty In A Glass
The subtle allure of the 2005 edition often belies its underlying depth and complexity that Christopher Broadbent once rather aptly referred to as 'Sleeping Beauty'. Unveiling itself with an inviting golden hue, it captures attention with an intricately orchestrated dance between ripe white fruits such as pears and peaches, underlined by nuanced notes of hazelnuts, cocoa and honey.
But like any great masterpiece, it takes time for its true character to reveal itself. After some patient anticipation, a series of alluring secrets find their way to your senses. Complex layers unfold with hints of dried fruits coupled with a certain toasty richness subtly accentuated by zesty citric hints. A spellbinding testament to Roederer's gifted winemakers capturing the best of the climatic outcomes in bottled excellence.
To conclude, whether you're looking for an exalted pleasure for your palate or a sparkling addition to your cellar collection's worth, this gold-dusted diamond in glass blend might just be one investment worth laying hands on. It serves as a lavishing testament that even while swimming against popular current splendidness can be un-earthed.
Market price (USD)
$2,490.00
12x75cl
Highest score
93
POP score
156.92
Scores and tasting notes
The 2005 Cristal stands out for its exceptional inner perfume and elegance. Soft, delicate and pretty, the 2005 is a relatively immediate Cristal with all of the signatures very much in the right place. The 2005 doesn’t have the opulence of the 2002 nor the focus of the 2004, but it is a very pretty, if somewhat small-scaled version of this iconic Champagne. I would drink the 2005 while the 2002 and 2004 age. Although Cristal has an impeccable track record when it comes to aging, personally I would not push it with the 2005. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2020. Roederer fans will find plenty of delicious wines in this lineup. Best of all, many of the best wines this year won’t break the bank. Unfortunately I did not taste Roederer’s NV wines, as the house does not list disgorgement dates or base vintages on their labels. Still, there are few estates in Champagne that are so consistently outstanding across their entire range. Importer: Maisons Marques & Domaines USA, Inc., Oakland, CA; tel. (510) 587-2000
Antonio Galloni - The Wine Advocate, 30 October 2012