Cristal, Louis Roederer 1990

The Louis Roederer 1990 Cristal is awesome! A classic of power and finesse, richness and delicacy, it may be the greatest Cristal I have ever tasted!

Quite firm gold. Some putty and mushrooms on the nose. Quite toasty, lemony, lively and broad. Definitely zesty even though there is weight too. Very complete with great force and direct acidity. Big and bold without being at all sweet. Wonderfully complete. Some floral notes. One to drink now with great pleasure.

Original disgorgement in mid-90s. This is in extraordinary shape with minerals and chalky notes right up on the nose, as well as oyster shell, dried lemon pith and plenty of lightly grilled hazelnuts and truffle, white chocolate and lemon brulée. The palate delivers an almost impossibly fresh sleeve of pristine lemon and white peach flavor, and extremely smooth, dense, velvety flesh. Acidity is impressive – so long and so fresh. Brilliant. Drink now.