2013 might actually be even better than 2008 for Chardonnay, but how did Roederer manage to harvest such perfect Pinot Noirs in that cooler late autumn? While we know stylish, balanced 2013 wines from the red grape varieties, many of which lack the substance and depth in the mid-palate to count among the greats, Cristal delivers all of these qualities with incredible energy and mineral intensity. Is it the perfect vineyard work, the low yields from old biodynamically farmed vines? Who knows, but this Cristal sets new standards. It combines the ripeness of the full-bodied 2002 with more elegance, minerality and energy.
The spring of 2013 simply wouldn't cooperate in Champagne! The vines started their vegetative cycle very late, and flowering didn’t begin until July. This was extremely rare even before global warming.
The summer was very warm, dry and brought more than enough sunshine to provide perfect conditions for Pinot Noir. However, the high temperatures clashed with grapes that were not yet sufficiently developed to lose their acidity. Due to the late start, ripening of the grapes only took place in October at low temperatures. The Chardonnays are perfect, but only the Pinot Noirs from the best plots have the fruit charm, substance, structure, and concentration needed for true greatness.
A glance at the Alfavin cellar
A glance at the Alfavin cellar
A glance at the Alfavin Cellar