Louis Roederer Cristal Brut 2012 1.5L
Louis Roederer Cristal Brut 2012, in a 1.5L magnum, is a milestone in the cuvée's history: the first Cristal made from 100% biodynamically farmed fruit. A 60% Pinot Noir / 40% Chardonnay blend at 12.5% ABV, with the lowest dosage ever for Cristal at release (7.5 g/L), no malolactic fermentation, and 32% of the vins clairs vinified in oak casks. Fruit comes from 45 Grand Cru parcels (vines minimum 35 years old), disgorged 2020. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 12.5%
- Size: 1.5L magnum
- Vintage: 2012 — brut prestige cuvée, released late 2019
- Blend: 60% Pinot Noir / 40% Chardonnay; 7.5 g/L dosage; no malolactic; 32% oak-vinified
- Origin: Louis Roederer, Reims, Champagne, France — 100% biodynamically farmed estate fruit
The First Biodynamic Cristal
The 2012 was a difficult Champagne harvest, but it gave Roederer something historic: after years of converting its estate vineyards, this is the first vintage of Cristal grown entirely biodynamically. The result keeps the cuvée's signature precision — high Ay and Avize fruit, chalky tension, restrained 7.5 g/L dosage — with added texture from oak-vinified lots. In magnum, one of the great modern Cristals ages even more gracefully.
Tasting Notes
Chalk and citrus at the core — lemon curd, white flowers, toasted almond — with a long, saline finish. Taut and energetic, with the depth to reward patience.
How to Enjoy
Chill to 45–48°F and pour into white-wine glasses. Pair with oysters, king crab, or aged Comté. A magnum of Champagne this fine is an event bottle — the 100% biodynamic farming makes the 2012 a piece of Champagne history.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is special about Cristal 2012?
It is the first vintage of Cristal made entirely from biodynamically farmed grapes — a milestone Roederer spent years of vineyard conversion to reach.
What is Cristal 2012's dosage?
7.5 g/L — the lowest dosage of any Cristal at release — with no malolactic fermentation, for a crisp, precise style.
How was the 2012 harvest?
Challenging: weather pressure reduced yields, but the resulting concentration produced one of the most acclaimed Cristals of the decade.
Louis Roederer Cristal 2012 in 1.5L magnum — order online from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA, and own the first biodynamic Cristal ever made.