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  • Country ranking ?

    338
  • Producer ranking ?

    16
  • Decanting time

    10min
  • When to drink

    now to 2030
  • Food Pairing

    Enjoy without food

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The Story

In 1876 when Tsar Alexander II requested that a special cuvée be created for his court Roederer duly obliged, creating what many regard to be the first prestige cuvée. 

As the political situation in Russia was somewhat unstable, Tsar Alexander feared assassination. He ordered that Champagne bottles be made of clear glass, so that he could see the bubbles and to prevent anyone from hiding a bomb within, as could easily happen with a typical ...

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Wine Information

In 1958 the total area in production in the official wine producing zone was 11,500 hectares. By using a part, and that it was only a part should be emphasized, of the land entitled to the champagne appellation, the area of vineyards was doubled in twenty years with the planting of 12,460 hectares, which, taking into account the effect of the unused plantation rights in 1958, gave a total of 24,252 hectares in production in 1978, the highest l...

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Vintage 1961

The 1961 vintage in Champagne is celebrated as an exceptional year that yielded wines of outstanding quality and finesse. In this vintage report, we will delve into the key characteristics and highlights of the 1961 Champagne wines.

Weather Conditions: The weather conditions in Champagne during the 1961 growing season were instrumental in shaping the extraordinary character of the vintage. The year began with a mild winter, followed by a sp...

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Average Bottle Price

2016 2015 2014 2012 2010 2005 2000
1 876€ +12.3% 1 670€ +14.5% 1 459€ +17.2% 1 245€ +57.6% 790€ +21.5% 650€ +91.2% 340€

This data comes from the FINE Auction Index, a composite of average prices for wines sold at commercial auctions in 20 countries. The average prices from each year have been collected since 1990. This chart plots the index value of the average price of the wines.

Tasting note

color

Medium

ending

Long

flavors

Nutty

nose

Refined

recommend

Yes

taste

Well-structured, Harmonious, Rich and Fresh

Written Notes

Cristal 1961 presents a captivating golden hue with fine, persistent bubbles. On the nose, it reveals an exquisite bouquet of matured notes including honey, toasted almonds, and brioche, interwoven with hints of dried apricot and candied citrus peel. The palate is remarkably elegant and balanced, showcasing a rich tapestry of flavors—ripe stone fruits, caramelized apples, and a touch of butterscotch—underpinned by a subtle minerality. The creamy texture and vibrant acidity culminate in a long, harmonious finish, leaving a lingering impression of finesse and complexity. This vintage epitomizes the pinnacle of aged Champagne, displaying both depth and sophistication.

  • 96p
Despite fairly weak mousse this wine was very vital with a deep reddish-golden colour. A great aroma of candy floss, toffee, cellar and strawberry. Full-bodied, insanely juicy and oily with opulent fruitiness and a charmingly irresistible character. The latest bottle had turned Madeira-like, so check the colour with care!
  • 96p
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Information

Origin

Reims, Champagne

Vintage Quality

Outstanding

Value For Money

Best buy

Investment potential

Good

Fake factory

Be Cautious

Glass time

45min

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