Louis Roederer 'Cristal' Late Release 2008 (750ml)
Only 3 in stock
Tasting Notes
The 2008 Cristal is an extraordinary expression of Champagne, combining remarkable concentration with exceptional freshness and precision. The bouquet reveals candied citrus, ripe yellow fruits, Williams pear, toasted almond, and delicate floral notes. The palate is powerful and beautifully textured, with layers of citrus, orchard fruit, chalky minerality, and subtle brioche. Despite its richness, the wine retains remarkable tension, vibrant acidity, and a distinctive saline character. Extended cellar aging has softened its youthful intensity, creating a seamless, velvety texture and an exceptionally long, pure finish.
About the Winery, Production & Critical Reputation
Founded in 1776, Louis Roederer is one of Champagne's most prestigious houses, internationally celebrated for its commitment to estate-grown fruit and exceptional vintage Champagnes. Cristal was originally created in 1876 for Tsar Alexander II of Russia and has since become one of the world's most recognizable and collectible luxury Champagnes.
The 2008 vintage is widely regarded as one of Champagne's greatest modern growing seasons. An unusually cool, dry summer produced grapes with exceptional concentration, vibrant acidity, and remarkable mineral precision. The wine is composed of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay sourced from prestigious Grand Cru vineyards across the Montagne de Reims, Marne Valley, and Côte des Blancs. Approximately 20% of the wine was vinified in oak casks, with 20% undergoing malolactic fermentation, preserving freshness while contributing complexity and texture.
Cristal Late Release 2008 represents an exceptionally rare opportunity to acquire this legendary vintage directly from Louis Roederer's private cellars. Created to celebrate the House's 250th anniversary and the 150th anniversary of Cristal, this limited release has benefited from additional aging under the estate's carefully controlled cellar conditions. The extended maturation has allowed the wine to develop greater complexity, refinement, and harmony while preserving the remarkable freshness and energy that define the 2008 vintage.
Presented in distinctive gold packaging created specifically for this anniversary release, Cristal Late Release 2008 combines the prestige of one of Champagne's most celebrated vintages with the rarity of an extended cellar-aged release. Produced in extremely limited quantities, it represents a particularly compelling opportunity for serious Champagne collectors.
Professional Scores
100 Points – Jeb Dunnuck
100 Points – James Suckling
100 Points – Wine Enthusiast
