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Roederer Champagne
For Louis Roederer, conquering the Russian market was a priority. The House
quickly developed sales there, which represented up to 60 percent of its total
shipments. During that time, Louis Roederer Champagnes built a great reputation
at the Imperial Court and among the Russian aristocracy, who, since the 18th
century, had been passionate about the French culture and art of living.
Tsar Alexander II, a Champagne connoisseur, saw to it himself to jealously
obtain the best wines. He was upset one day that nothing distinguished the
champagne served at his table from that tasted in the neighborhood of his court
members.
Informed of this observation, Louis Roederer called upon a master Flemish
glassmaker who designed an exceptional bottle, so solid that it allowed for a
flat bottom. Hence the creation of Cristal, the first prestige vintage in
Champagne. From then on, the wines reserved for the Tsar were delivered in these
invaluable bottles covered with the imperial coat of arms.
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