{"api":{"host":"https:\/\/pinot.decanter.com","authorization":"Bearer NmRjODgyZjc4NDZmYzYxNjhiMmVhODFkY2M3MTY2NWU5MzI2NThhNzAyYzhmMTkzYTY0ZmRhNjg2MDU2MzZjZA","version":"2.0"},"piano":{"sandbox":"false","aid":"6qv8OniKQO","rid":"RJXC8OC","offerId":"OFPHMJWYB8UK","offerTemplateId":"OFPHMJWYB8UK","wcTemplateId":"OTOW5EUWVZ4B"}}

PREMIUM

Louis Roederer masterclass: DFWE New York

Attendees of Decanter's second fine wine encounter in New York were treated to a rare masterclass of Louis Roederer Champagnes, including four vintages of Cristal, led by executive vice president and chef de cave Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon.

With 34 Louis Roederer harvests under his belt, Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon is perfectly positioned to talk about the estate’s developments and shift in farming practises over the past few decades but far from being bored or lackadaisical he remains as passionate and ‘excited as ever’ about crafting Champagne and ensuring the future of this prestigious House.

During the 90-minute masterclass, Champagne lovers were treated to eight wines that showcased both the individual terroirs and climates of Champagne combined with the stylistic principles – and new direction – of Louis Roederer.

  • Collection 243 NV
  • Vintage 2015
  • Vintage Rosé 2016
  • Blanc de Blancs 2015
  • Cristal 2014
  • Cristal 2008
  • Cristal 2002
  • Cristal Rosé 2012

Scroll down to see tasting notes and scores for all eight Louis Roederer Champagnes in the Decanter masterclass


Detailing the micro-, meso- and even nano- climates available in the region – and why they matter – Lécaillon spoke emphatically and effusively about what he believes makes Champagne the best white wine terroir in the world, why all Louis Roederer vintage Champagnes are made from vineyards they own, the importance of biodynamics and the particularities of their revered Cristal bottlings.

Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon leading the Louis Roederer masterclass in New York

Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon leading the Louis Roederer masterclass in New York

Starting out


See tasting notes and scores for all eight Louis Roederer Champagnes in the masterclass


Related content

Louis Roederer’s Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon on Champagne and The Big Apple
Independent Champagne producers: Top trends & names to look out for
Champagne’s star winemakers of tomorrow

Latest Wine News