"Ripeness was difficult in 1997, due to a cold and rainy summer, but it finally arrived in a warm and sunny September. There is 30% malolactic fermentation, 9% oak-fermentation, and 9g/l dosage instead of the original 12. It’s what JBL called “a singular profile, citrusy, metallic, cold; it took time for the potential to be realized and it remains austere.”A blend of 62% Verzy Pinot Noir and 38% Chouilly Chardonnay, disgorged March 31, 2005, this is pale gold, fresh and citrusy in aroma, classic Roederer, a light, toasty touch, with a citrusy freshness of fragrance and stone fruits; behind the expansive mousse there’s a mid-palate praline-like richness dissolving on the palate, and an incisively fresh pineapple-citrus fruit quality; a tad austere, with that touch of bitterness, but nonetheless finely balanced overall, leading to a satisfying, dry finish."
95 points - The World of Fine Wine