Cristal2016

The 2016 vintage was characterised by particularly marked weather variations: spring was cool, wet and relatively late whereas summer was warm and dry with a heatwave in late August followed by dry and sunny weather over the harvest period which was highly beneficial to the ripening of the grapes. Our Pinot noirs thrived in these dry, sunny conditions and the heat has given them an intensely fruity character and silky smooth texture. The Chardonnays are just as outstanding although more chiselled and saline in character.

With juicy, concentrated ripe fruit and lovely iodised and roasted overtones within delicately soft and tactile bubbles, Cristal 2016 is more accessible than ever. Pure, precise and concentrated, this is the consummate Cristal, combining the soft, caressing texture of the sun-kissed Pinots with the chalky energy of the Chardonnays. The long finish leaves an elegant sensation of infinite grace.

Cristal is an experience unlike any other, crafted in a manner that will allow it to reveal itself very gradually over time. This outsanding champagne grows more glorious with every passing year, gaining in depth, finesse and aromatic complexity. The freshness of its youth evolves progressively to reveal more candied, spicy and saline aromas along with ever more delicated and refined bubbles. It can be enjoyed in the purity and chalky freshness of its youth or can be laid down for a few more years or even decades in a cool, dark cellar, with its oranges cellophane protecting it from light, where it will continue to evolve beautifully over time. This wine has a promising future ahead of it and its destiny is in your hands!