Steeped in history and recognized as one of Champagne’s most celebrated bottlings, Cristal reiterates its modern place in the world of fine wine with its most highly rated version ever from Wine Spectator. It’s a triumph from the challenging 2014 vintage, with chef de cave Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon crediting the chalky soils for their ability to store water during spring’s dry period and drain it during summer’s rainy months. Harvested from up to 45 organically farmed plots owned by Louis Roederer’s Rouzaud family, this is a blend of 60 percent Pinot Noir and 40 percent Chardonnay, with 32 percent fermented in oak and no malolactic fermentation. The 2014 shows greater expression than usual on release, and its harmonious marriage of finesse and crystalline structure allows for aging as well as drinking now.