The wines of Maison Louis Roederer unquestionably rank among the finest of the Champagne region. Originally founded in 1776, the company remains family owned to this day. Its vineyard holdings cover an impressive 182 hectares, which are equally divided among the region’s three primary growing zones: Montagne de Reims, Vallee de la Marne and Cote des Blancs. This unusually large domaine makes it possible for Roederer to purchase a much smaller quantity of grapes from outside suppliers than most champagne houses. An important element of the Roederer house style is that the wines have twice the average bottle-age of many other champagnes. This is made possible by the reserve cellar, where the equivalent of between four and five years’ sales is simply held in stock for future release.

An entry to the renowned Roederer style, Brut Premier is a non-vintage champagne that is intended to be drinkable upon release. It is composed of reserve wines that are 20% wood-aged and primarily made from Pinot Noir grapes (66%). The presence of wood and Pinot Noir respectively account for the vanilla scents and red fruit flavours. Louis Roederer’s flagship wine is the famous Cristal, favourite of Tsar Alexander II and created for his exclusive use. In order to distinguish it from other champagnes, the Tsar requested that it be bottled in crystal. The form of Cristal’s patented bottle has remained unchanged for over a century. The finest grapes of the Roederer vineyards are used in the wine, including a high percentage of Chardonnay. The finished product displays the personality of its vintage with elegance and finesse.