Among the most accomplished expressions of the House of Louis Roederer’s blending, the Collection 243, Champagne AOC, is presented here in a premium gift box as a precisely made Brut. The 243rd opus of patient know-how, this multi-vintage cuvée is built on the 2018 harvest, supported by a Réserve Perpétuelle started in 2012 and reserve wines aged in cask, for a luminous, upright and intensely seductive style. The aromatic framework combines the bright character of the Chardonnays, the depth of the Pinot Noirs and the fruity drive of the Meuniers, from the vineyards of La Rivière, La Montagne and La Côte. A partial malolactic fermentation refines the texture, while 3 to 4 years of cellar ageing polish the effervescence and drape the palate in a silky grain. Dosaged at 8 g/L, the Collection 243 stands out for a savory freshness and measured indulgence, promising a precise tasting moment, whether as a discreet aperitif or at a dinner with marine and creamy notes. The elegant, understated box makes this cuvée a chosen gift, suited to the most delicate attentions.

Blend and winemaking

The Collection 243 is a blended Champagne Brut combining approximately 42% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir and 18% Pinot Meunier. Built on the 2018 harvest, it includes around 31% Réserve Perpétuelle initiated in 2012, a true liquid memory, and nearly 10% reserve wines aged in oak foudres, providing additional complexity. A partial malolactic fermentation of about 26% rounds the acidity without diminishing the fruit’s brightness, preserving a crystalline energy. 3 to 4 years in cellar refine the mousse, deepen the texture and harmonize the aromatic layers. The dosage of 8 g/L signs a modern, upright and lively balance, where tension meets delicate creaminess. Every gesture, from parcel selection to blending, aims to reveal the purest expression of a contemporary Roederer style, vibrant and precise.

Tasting notes

• Appearance: Bright gold, clear, animated by fine and persistent effervescence, revealing a creamy and perfectly formed mousse.
• Nose: Broad and sharply defined, initially on ripe fruits evoking mirabelle plum and vibrant citrus. Floral jasmine nuances follow, with a smoky touch and notes of toasted viennoiserie recalling warm brioche and golden puff pastry.
• Palate: A lively, enveloping attack. The mid-palate combines density, structure and a savory salinity that stretches the finish. The fruit remains juicy, the texture chalky, the indulgence without heaviness, with an uplifted persistence.

Serving temperature and tips

Serve between 9 and 11°C in tulip glasses to favour the expression of the bouquet and the finesse of the bubbles. Allow the bottle to open for a few minutes while chilled before pouring, to let the floral and pastry notes unfold. The cuvée will support a few additional years in the cellar, protected from light and temperature variations, gaining in harmony and patina, with a cellaring potential of 5 to 7 years depending on conditions.

Food pairings

• Aperitifs: light gougères, vegetable tempura, thinly sliced cured ham.
• Starters: sea bream carpaccio with citrus, lightly spiced ceviche, salmon tartare with herbs.
• Mains: premium fish grilled or gently steamed, roast poultry with a reduced jus, herb risotto.
• Cheeses: ripened brie, Brillat-Savarin, Chaource, whose creamy texture responds to the saline freshness.
• Desserts: thin mirabelle tart, candied citrus with delicate bitterness, airy praliné finger.

Occasions to enjoy

The Collection 243 is the natural companion for chosen moments:

• To elevate a refined aperitif where conversation meets the sparkle of the bubbles.
• At a seafood-focused dinner where fish and citrus dialogue with a saline framework.
• As an exceptional gift thanks to its premium gift box, a sign of thoughtful attention.

Characteristics

• Name: Louis Roederer, Collection 243, Premium Gift Box, Brut
• Appellation: Champagne AOC
• Type: Brut, multi-vintage
• Vintage: Blend based on 2018
• Grape varieties: Chardonnay 42%, Pinot Noir 40%, Pinot Meunier 18%
• Alcohol by volume: 12.5%
• Ageing: 3 to 4 years in cellar, Réserve Perpétuelle 31%, reserve wines in foudres 10%
• Volume: 75 cl, premium gift box
• Cellaring: 5 to 7 years
• Serving temperature: 9–11°C