drink-nowChampagne Louis Roederer, Collection 242, Brut

It was a brave decision for Champagne Louis Roederer to replace their flagship, bestselling Brut Premier. But Louis Roederer have a reputation for boldness, driven by excellence. In the face of global warming, Chef du Cave Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon has described the challenge of making this Champagne as ""fighting for freshness"". The style of this wine is a seamless transition from the Brut Premier, with the same drinkability, vinous detail and hallmark quality. Cleverly utilising a new perpetual reserve based on acidity and minerality, Jean-Baptiste has futureproofed the wine's freshness and style. The collection number represents the number of times they have made a multi-vintage since Louis Roederer was established in 1776.

This wine is a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, from Louis Roederer’s owned Grand and Premier Cru vineyards. It's based on the 2017 vintage, with the addition of special reserve wines held in oak and steel. These have been chosen to add complexity and depth, but also freshness. It's been aged on the lees for at least three years, giving Collection 242 incredible elegance, with a silk-like mousse and notes of red apple and yellow plum. It shows remarkable purity of fruit, with floral highlights and a delicious pain au raisin character. But, as with all of Louis Roederer cuvées, it has an electric chalky freshness which extends the enjoyment of this magnificent multi-vintage cuvée.

Drink now to 2030.

Davy Żyw, Wine Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (Oct 2021)