Community Tasting Note
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csimm wrote: 96 points
April 26, 2024 - This bottle was all sorts of good. It had the energy and freshness I expect, with the elevated budding complexity and focus I expect from Cristal. This bested a 2015 by a decent margin (which most would say no surprise, but I’ve had some hit/miss encounters with the 2008 over the past couple of years). I had a number of other top big house producers crush a bottle of 2008 Cristal, giving me slight pause at times.
As it goes with all things wine, a very good bottle one day can be a great bottle the next. So is the case here with this bottle of 2008. One of the better showings this time around. For me, I still think the 2013 is stronger overall and will/has/does typically lap the 2008. I know the 2008 is the darling vintage for Champagne, but I have yet to be convinced it is the vintage to end all vintages, as declared by others.
I say start drinking these 2008s now if you value freshness. Obviously it can hold for some time if you are seeking more oxidative features.10 people found this helpful 5,066 views
4 Comments
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Decanting Queen commented:
4/27/24, 7:20 AM - Great to hear. Still hoarding my 08’s (birth year) although sounds like we will have to introduce some at Sweet 16 rather than save them all for 21+
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csimm commented:
4/27/24, 10:24 AM - I’d definitely check a bottle out sooner than later to see where your preferences might land with the 08.
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Decanting Queen commented:
4/28/24, 5:34 AM - Will do. I am fortunate that I enjoy champagne in many stages of its life—young and fresh, older and more complex, sometimes a little bit oxidative style, it all works for me at different times. But it would be good to experience all the iterations of this Cristal—now on deck for the fall.
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csimm commented:
4/28/24, 8:20 AM - Totally agree. The evolution and versatility of Champagne is what makes it most compelling to me.