What does Late Release mean for Louis Roederer? The term Late Release refers to an exclusive collection of vintage Champagnes that have been aged significantly longer than usual. While a traditional vintage Champagne is released after a few years, Louis Roederer's Late Release cuvées are aged for approximately ten additional years "sur lattes"—the classic horizontal aging in the bottle in the house's cellars. This allows them to undergo a slow and controlled development that deepens their complexity and character. These bottles have spent more than two decades in the quiet, dark cellars of Louis Roederer in Reims, under perfect temperature and humidity conditions. During this long aging, the mousse refines, the acidity softens, and the aromas of fruit, brioche, and minerality integrate into a harmonious whole. The result is a Champagne that retains its original freshness while simultaneously revealing new, riper aromas and a silky texture. The Late Release wines thus reach the pinnacle of their expression. They reveal an extra dimension of depth and elegance that only time can offer. Each bottle reflects the signature of the vintage, but also the unique development enabled by long aging. These are Champagnes that have not simply been stored, but carefully nurtured until they reveal their full potential – wines that exude refinement, tranquility, and maturity. Champagne Louis Roederer Brut Nature Rosé Late Release 1999 The Louis Roederer Brut Nature Rosé Late Release 1999 is an exceptional Champagne from an exceptional year. This rosé, only released in 2024, showcases the finesse and complexity of long aging. A rare cuvée that perfectly harmonizes power, elegance, and freshness. About Champagne Louis Roederer Louis Roederer is one of the world's most prestigious Champagne houses. Since its founding in 1776, the house has remained independent and is known for its meticulous vineyard management and extended aging. Roederer owns over 240 hectares of vineyards in the finest Champagne crus and produces only wines of exceptional quality. Its style is characterized by refinement, structure, and a characteristic tension between ripeness and freshness. Harvest year 1999 1999 was a dynamic vintage in Champagne. After an early start, a dry, sunny summer followed, bringing the grapes to perfect ripeness. Despite heavy rainfall during the harvest, the grapes remained healthy. The result was a powerful, concentrated, and generous vintage with a fresh attack and soft notes of fruit and spice. The harvest took place between September 15th and October 1st. Origin and vinification The Brut Nature Rosé 1999 comes from Louis Roederer's "La Rivière" estate, one of the house's historic terroirs. The blend consists of 53% Pinot Noir and 47% Chardonnay. A portion of the wine (26%) was fermented in oak barrels, adding structure and complexity. Only 5% underwent malolactic fermentation, preserving its natural freshness. The wine was disgorged in November 2010 and given a dosage of 8 g/l. This late release was released in 2024 after exceptionally long bottle aging, enhancing its depth and complexity. Vinification of the rosé The wine is made through a gentle infusion of Pinot Noir, allowing the skins to slowly release their color and fruit without losing their freshness. During this process, Chardonnay juices are added to the maceration, allowing both grape varieties to ferment together. This creates a natural harmony between power and finesse – a hallmark of Roederer's style. Tasting note The color is deep and bright pink with fine, even bubbles. The nose reveals concentrated black fruit notes such as blackcurrant and blueberry, delicately complemented by aromas of red flowers, oak, and subtle chocolate. The palate is round and creamy with ripe, roasted fruit notes. The texture is broad and full, yet refined and light-footed thanks to the fresh, salty tension. The finish is long, spicy, and lightly toasted with notes of cocoa and spices. T