These are the Louis Roederer champagnes to be sipping this Christmas

Words: Zoe Dickens

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Put down your eggnog and set aside your snowball – if you’re going to drink anything this Christmas make it that most celebratory of sips: champagne. However, a lot goes in to creating a great bottle of champagne so, if you are going to indulge, then it pays to know what to invest in.

Established in 1776, Champagne Louis Roederer is now owned and operated by the seventh generation of the Roederer family; Frédéric Rouzaud. The core philosophy of the house is respect for nature, and the maison’s natural, organic farming methods shine through in the energy and character of its award-winning champagnes. But, with numerous vintages, expressions and variations to choose from, how do you know which bottle is the perfect one for your occasion? Allow us to guide you…

The newly released Cristal 2012 is the most exciting champagne to hit the market this year. Described by wine guru Jancis Robinson MW as “gorgeous and seductive” this is the ultimate in vinous gifting – sure to impress even the most clued up of wine lovers.

Created using the Grands Crus of the Montagne de Reims, Vallee de la Marne and Cote des Blancs regions, this vintage is the first of its viticulture to be released and has revealed itself to be a truly remarkable wine. A jewel in the already famous Cristal crown.

A memorable toast should be underscored by a great champagne so make it a moment to savour with the Louis Roederer Brut Vintage 2012. A stunning champagne with intensity and grace, its blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, along with the famously challenging conditions of the 2012 growing season, have yielded a rich, full-bodied and structured wine that is up there with the finest vintages in living memory. Cheers!

Everyone likes to spoil their guests at Christmas – and it’s always nice to have them comment on what a discerning host you are – but how do you find a quality party pleaser?

For this purpose there is no champagne finer than Louis Roederer’s Brut Premier NV – the ultimate NV champagne. The blending of older vintages gives the champagne complexity, marking it out as something special, while still being rich, rounded yet refreshing enough to appeal to all your guests, whether connoisseurs or not.

After a busy festive season there’s nothing like finally finding time to unwind with your nearest and dearest over a good meal. And, when it comes to an evening of romance, there’s no finer tipple than Louis Roederer’s extraordinary rosé champagne. Incredibly pale, fresh and achingly elegant, this is not only the perfect aperitif but is also a knock out with food – the experts suggest pairing it with salmon, lamb, soft cheese and red fruits. Bon appetit.

Nothing says indulgence like champagne with breakfast so this year upgrade your usual Christmas morning Bucks Fizz to a glass of the really good stuff. The Carte Blanche is a demi-sec champagne, providing a touch of sweetness that is perfect for easing yourself into the day – and ready you for some serious present opening. Heaven with creamy scrambled eggs topped with a little freshly grated truffle.

Louis Roederer champagnes are stocked at Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Selfridges, Fortnum & Mason and thefinestbubble.com.

Go behind-the-scenes on the making of Louis Roederer et Philippe Starck Brut Nature 2012…

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