Expert: Paul Wagner - 12/4/2001

Question
Hi Paul:

I'm confused about the term "Kristal" (might be "Cristal") when it comes to describing champagne.  Is this a brand name?  A certain grade/quality of the champagne?  A variation on a type of Champagne (such as ale, porter, lager, pilsner, etc., when describing beer)?  I hear rappers constantly referring to this in their songs; I'm guessing that it's very good, and very expensive.

Thanks,
Jim Lizzi

Answer
Dear Jim:

Kristal is indeed a brand name--for the tete de cuvee from Roderer.  True Champagne comes from France, and there are various levels of quality:  non-vintage brut is lowest level, you might then see vintage Champagnes ( made only in special years) as well as certain reserve wines as well.  The best of the best is called tete de cuvee (the head, or top, of the blend).  Dom Perignon (Moet Henessey) Fleur (, Perrier-Jouet ), La Grande Dame (Veuve Cliquot) , and Kristal are all tete de cuvee blends.  Kristal is probably the most expensive, although whether it is the best is certainly a question of personal taste.

Paul Wagner