The 2016 Cristal delivers a mouthwatering and ethereal quality, driven by chiseled acidity and a vibrant, pointillist-like mousse. The palate opens with finely spun notes of patisserie, featuring a mix of apple and blackberry fruit that evolves through to the minerally finish. Subtle yet expressive flavors of grated ginger, blood orange granita, and salted Marcona almonds interlace with hints of anise. A characteristic of Louis Roederer's vintages, the attack is ample and dense, yet balanced by the sweetness and acidity from the blend of Pinot Noir grapes from Verzenay. Notes of candied fruits, almond paste, toast, white chocolate, and caramel add to the wine's layered complexity.