Vinous – 96

Rich, creamy and radiant, the 2009 Cristal captures all of the natural generosity of the vintage while also retaining a good bit of freshness and aromatic intensity. Immediate and totally sensual in its allure, the 2009 will drink well with minimal cellaring. All things considered, at this stage, the 2009 comes across as relatively restrained for a wine from a warm year. [Antonio Galloni, 07/01/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2019-2049

Robert Parker – 95+

“The 2009 Cristal is a blend of Grands Crus from the Montagne de Reims, the Vallée de la Marne and the Côte des Blancs (a total of 33-34 parcels of which 40% were farmed biodynamically). Like the 2008 Cristal, the 2009 also blends 60% Pinot Noir with 40% Chardonnay, and 16% of the wine was vinified in oak casks. No malolactic fermentation was done. The 2009 was aged for six years in the cellars and was disgorged in March 2016 with a dosage of eight grams per liter. Released two years ago, the 2009 is just starting another, more “”Burgundian”” life. Tasted in May 2018, the bouquet was pretty reductive, with flinty and toasty/nutty notes and some potted ginger flavors. Full-bodied, round and rich on the palate, this is a stunningly pure, fresh and salty 2009 that is driven by its chalky terroir and the lingering salinity. Is it really 2009? It is ripe, yes, but driven by the strength of chalk. The finish is pure, clean, fresh, very complex and long yet delicate and endlessly salty. However, two years after disgorgement, the 2009 Cristal is closing down and in a pretty reductive stage right now. Tasted May 2018.” [18/06/2018]

Anticipated maturity: 2023-2040

JancisRobinson.com – 17

Disgorged in 2016, dosage 8 g/l. 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, 16% of the cuvée is fermented in oak. Six years spent on the lees. Big and less precise than the 2012 and 2013. A little sweet and broad. Released before the 2008. Just a little loose. [18/11/2021]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2030