Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay
37.5cl * 12.5% ABV * Champagne, France
The company we now know as Louis Roederer was founded in 1776 as Dubois Pere & Fils, changing its name in 1833 when the young Louis inherited the estate from his uncle. The house is perhaps best-known for Cristal (bottled in clear crystal and a flat punt), their prestige cuvée that became famous due to its associations with the Russian Imperial Court. The grapes for the whole range of Roederer Champagnes are largely sourced from their own vineyards, which guarantees that only the highest quality fruit ends up in the final blend.
This new Louis Roederer blend has caused quite a splash in the genteel world of Grand Marque Champagne, where usually not even a ripple is felt. Roederer have replaced their Brut NV with this multi-vintage cuvée that changes each year, much like Krug does. Cuvée 244 is predominantly based on the 2019 vintage, and the excellent Chardonnay grapes of that year. Aromas of ripe fruit balance with subtle oakiness, while the texture is rich and velvety.