The « Cuvée »

Champagne Pol Roger created their Prestige Cuvée in homage to Sir Winston Churchill mindful of the qualities that he sought in his champagne : robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity. The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet with the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated : "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best". Pinot Noir predominates, providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst Chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety. Composed exclusively of grapes sourced from Grands Crus Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards which were already under vine during Churchill's lifetime. Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is only made in the very best vintages and is always released later than the other vintage dated Champagnes from Pol Roger, marking Churchill's appreciation for older wines.

Vinification & Maturation

The must undergoes two débourbages (settlings), one at the press house immediatly after pressing and the second, a débourbage à froid, in stainless steel tanks at 6°C over a 24 hour period. A slow cool fermentation with the temperature kept under 18°C takes place in stainless steel with each variety and each village kept seperate. The wine undergoes a full malolactic-fermentation prior to final blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in the deepest Pol Roger cellars (33 metres below street level) where the wine is kept until it undergoes remuage (riddling) by hand, a rarity in Champagne nowadays. The very fine and persistent mousse for which Pol Roger is renowned owes much to these deep, cool and damp cellars.

Tasting notes

The 21st vintage of the Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is an alluring mid-yellow-gold with a fine stream of bubbles, both characteristics of the length of time this wine has spent in the famously cool Pol Roger cellars.
The nose opens with notes of spices and pepper. A good intensity of black fruit follows, showing the fine concentration and density of the wine. The complexity is obvious: a bouquet of dried fruit and hazelnut overlayed with notes of exotic fruits. The aromas are particularly open and impressive.
On the palate, candied fruit notes accompany hints of pastries, brioche and cocoa, broad and mouth-filling. Delightfully structured, the large proportion of Pinot Noir gives the roundness and gravity that one expects from this cuvée. Despite the wine's relative youth, it is starting to show some smoky weight and good grip with broad, rich and long acidity. Full bodied and generous, the wine culminates with terrific length. Drink now or over the next 20 years.

Food pairings

The « Cuvée »

Champagne Pol Roger created their Prestige Cuvée in homage to Sir Winston Churchill mindful of the qualities that he sought in his champagne : robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity. The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet with the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated : "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best". Pinot Noir predominates, providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst Chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety. Composed exclusively of grapes sourced from Grands Crus Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards which were already under vine during Churchill's lifetime. Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is only made in the very best vintages and is always released later than the other vintage dated Champagnes from Pol Roger, marking Churchill's appreciation for older wines.

Vinification & Maturation

The must undergoes two débourbages (settlings), one at the press house immediatly after pressing and the second, a débourbage à froid, in stainless steel tanks at 6°C over a 24 hour period. A slow cool fermentation with the temperature kept under 18°C takes place in stainless steel with each variety and each village kept seperate. The wine undergoes a full malolactic-fermentation prior to final blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in the deepest Pol Roger cellars (33 metres below street level) where the wine is kept until it undergoes remuage (riddling) by hand, a rarity in Champagne nowadays. The very fine and persistent mousse for which Pol Roger is renowned owes much to these deep, cool and damp cellars.

Tasting notes

With its splendid intense golden hue and lovely bright tints, this wine is captivating to the eye. The first nose is subtle and opens with scents of dried flowers (rose petals) delicately mingled with peppery notes, revealing a lovely freshness. After breathing, a few hints of vanilla and candied fruit come through to complete a well-developed bouquet. On entry to the palate, the wine is well balanced and underpinned by a hint of citrus fruit, confirming the intense freshness found on the first nose. It then shows itself to be enchanting and luscious, revealing notes of zesty citrus fruit, quince and green tea, magnified by deliciously elegant bubbles, characteristic of this wine of power and character. The high proportion of Pinot Noir in the blend lends the wine structure and length as well as a perfect balance of generosity and elegance. The Sir Winston Churchill 2013 is a veritable symphony of sensations.

Food pairings

The « Cuvée »

Champagne Pol Roger created their Prestige Cuvée in homage to Sir Winston Churchill mindful of the qualities that he sought in his champagne : robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity. The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet with the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated : "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best". Pinot Noir predominates, providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst Chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety. Composed exclusively of grapes sourced from Grands Crus Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards which were already under vine during Churchill's lifetime. Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is only made in the very best vintages and is always released later than the other vintage dated Champagnes from Pol Roger, marking Churchill's appreciation for older wines.

Vinification & Maturation

The must undergoes two débourbages (settlings), one at the press house immediatly after pressing and the second, a débourbage à froid, in stainless steel tanks at 6°C over a 24 hour period. A slow cool fermentation with the temperature kept under 18°C takes place in stainless steel with each variety and each village kept seperate. The wine undergoes a full malolactic-fermentation prior to final blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in the deepest Pol Roger cellars (33 metres below street level) where the wine is kept until it undergoes remuage (riddling) by hand, a rarity in Champagne nowadays. The very fine and persistent mousse for which Pol Roger is renowned owes much to these deep, cool and damp cellars.

Tasting notes

Old gold hue with gorgeous grey tints and a stream of lovely fine bubbles.

The first nose exudes generous aromas of pastry with hints of vanilla and brioche, followed by subtle fragrances of sweet spice as it opens up. The bouquet then develops to reveal an array of dried fruit and candied exotic fruit mixed with notes of banana and papaya.

The wine is honest and lively on entry, giving way to an attractive and opulent texture with a lovely balance. We are then treated to an extraordinary explosion of flavours, elegantly blending roasted almonds, acacia honey, hazelnut liqueur and gingerbread. This wonderful harmony is underpinned by a structure that shows a smooth, creamy and round character.

Well-structured with a superb aromatic persistence, this vintage 2012 is remarkable for its complexity and power.

Food pairings

The « Cuvée »

Champagne Pol Roger created their Prestige Cuvée in homage to Sir Winston Churchill mindful of the qualities that he sought in his champagne : robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity. The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet with the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated : "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best". Pinot Noir predominates, providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst Chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety. Composed exclusively of grapes sourced from Grands Crus Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards which were already under vine during Churchill's lifetime. Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is only made in the very best vintages and is always released later than the other vintage dated Champagnes from Pol Roger, marking Churchill's appreciation for older wines.

Vinification & Maturation

The must undergoes two débourbages (settlings), one at the press house immediatly after pressing and the second, a débourbage à froid, in stainless steel tanks at 6°C over a 24 hour period. A slow cool fermentation with the temperature kept under 18°C takes place in stainless steel with each variety and each village kept seperate. The wine undergoes a full malolactic-fermentation prior to final blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in the deepest Pol Roger cellars (33 metres below street level) where the wine is kept until it undergoes remuage (riddling) by hand, a rarity in Champagne nowadays. The very fine and persistent mousse for which Pol Roger is renowned owes much to these deep, cool and damp cellars.

Tasting notes

The wine has an inviting, bright golden hue, and a fine, regular stream of bubbles.
At first the refined nose exudes subtle hints of brioche and sweet spice combining with citrus flavours and floral fragrances.
As the wine warms in the glass, it becomes more powerful and the nose develops complex nuances of toasted nuts, acacia blossom and honeycomb.
The palate is round and creamy supported by notes of fresh fruit.
The structure is opulent, underpinned by fabulous balance. The finish is long and powerful.

Food pairings

The weight, balance and mineral freshness means that this champagne could be served with Parmigano Reggiano matured for 18 months, a stuffed capon façon demi-deuil or sweetbreads cooked with morels

The « Cuvée »

Champagne Pol Roger created their Prestige Cuvée in homage to Sir Winston Churchill mindful of the qualities that he sought in his champagne : robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity. The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet with the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated : "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best". Pinot Noir predominates, providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst Chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety. Composed exclusively of grapes sourced from Grands Crus Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards which were already under vine during Churchill's lifetime. Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is only made in the very best vintages and is always released later than the other vintage dated Champagnes from Pol Roger, marking Churchill's appreciation for older wines.

Vinification & Maturation

The must undergoes two débourbages (settlings), one at the press house immediatly after pressing and the second, a débourbage à froid, in stainless steel tanks at 6°C over a 24 hour period. A slow cool fermentation with the temperature kept under 18°C takes place in stainless steel with each variety and each village kept seperate. The wine undergoes a full malolactic-fermentation prior to final blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in the deepest Pol Roger cellars (33 metres below street level) where the wine is kept until it undergoes remuage (riddling) by hand, a rarity in Champagne nowadays. The very fine and persistent mousse for which Pol Roger is renowned owes much to these deep, cool and damp cellars.

Tasting notes

The opulent golden colour of the wine is enlivened by a fine, harmonious stream of bubbles.
At first, the rich nose boasts notes of white flowers and freshly baked brioche aromas. As the wine warms in the glass, it exudes scents of dried fruits and toasted almonds and hazelnuts, combining with a hint of orange zest.
On the palate, the wine is immediately powerful and yet exquisitely well-balanced; refreshing flavours of citrus fruit, notably grapefruit, are coupled with creamy notes of pastry.
This wine combines the fullness of the much-celebrated 2008 vintage with the unparalleled and much-loved style of the Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill. A long, lingering finish indicates that this wine has fantastic ageing potential.

Food pairings

The « Cuvée »

Champagne Pol Roger created their Prestige Cuvée in homage to Sir Winston Churchill mindful of the qualities that he sought in his champagne : robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity. The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet with the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated : "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best". Pinot Noir predominates, providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst Chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety. Composed exclusively of grapes sourced from Grands Crus Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards which were already under vine during Churchill's lifetime. Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is only made in the very best vintages and is always released later than the other vintage dated Champagnes from Pol Roger, marking Churchill's appreciation for older wines.

Vinification & Maturation

The must undergoes two débourbages (settlings), one at the press house immediatly after pressing and the second, a débourbage à froid, in stainless steel tanks at 6°C over a 24 hour period. A slow cool fermentation with the temperature kept under 18°C takes place in stainless steel with each variety and each village kept seperate. The wine undergoes a full malolactic-fermentation prior to final blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in the deepest Pol Roger cellars (33 metres below street level) where the wine is kept until it undergoes remuage (riddling) by hand, a rarity in Champagne nowadays. The very fine and persistent mousse for which Pol Roger is renowned owes much to these deep, cool and damp cellars.

Tasting notes

The wine displays a gorgeous white gold colour enhanced by a continuous thread of tiny bubbles announcing a lively effervescence.

The delicate nose exudes scents of butter and brioche. Flavours of almonds and hazelnuts mingle with refined fragrances of yellow fruits dominated by the freshness of citrus fruits (tangerines).

Then the wine opens up with savours of nougat and pistachio nuts.

On the palate, the attack is fresh and reveals a perfect balance between acidity and suppleness.

The aromas are reminiscent of the sweetness of cooked fruits associated with hints of almonds, dried fruits and quinces.

As the wine warms in the glass, it turns more rounded. Its silky texture is supported by a stunning length.

Food pairings

The « Cuvée »

Champagne Pol Roger created their Prestige Cuvée in homage to Sir Winston Churchill mindful of the qualities that he sought in his champagne : robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity. The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet with the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated : "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best". Pinot Noir predominates, providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst Chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety. Composed exclusively of grapes sourced from Grands Crus Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards which were already under vine during Churchill's lifetime. Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is only made in the very best vintages and is always released later than the other vintage dated Champagnes from Pol Roger, marking Churchill's appreciation for older wines.

Vinification & Maturation

The must undergoes two débourbages (settlings), one at the press house immediatly after pressing and the second, a débourbage à froid, in stainless steel tanks at 6°C over a 24 hour period. A slow cool fermentation with the temperature kept under 18°C takes place in stainless steel with each variety and each village kept seperate. The wine undergoes a full malolactic-fermentation prior to final blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in the deepest Pol Roger cellars (33 metres below street level) where the wine is kept until it undergoes remuage (riddling) by hand, a rarity in Champagne nowadays. The very fine and persistent mousse for which Pol Roger is renowned owes much to these deep, cool and damp cellars.

Tasting notes

The wine is a deep golden-yellow colour with a continuous thread of lingering bubbles.

The elegant nose delivers intense and complex aromas, dominated by enticing notes of dried fruit, toasted almond and honey.

On the palate the wine is full bodied, boasting a powerful, rich structure, yet balanced with a refreshing acidity and flavourful notes of citrus fruit.

The finish shows a remarkable length, with creamy notes of butter combined with rich fruitiness of Mirabelle plum and tart, ripe pear.

Food pairings

The weight, balance and mineral freshness means that this champagne could be served with Parmigano Reggiano matured for 18 months, a stuffed capon façon demi-deuil or sweetbreads cooked with morels.

The « Cuvée »

Champagne Pol Roger created their Prestige Cuvée in homage to Sir Winston Churchill mindful of the qualities that he sought in his champagne : robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity. The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet with the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated : "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best". Pinot Noir predominates, providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst Chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety. Composed exclusively of grapes sourced from Grands Crus Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards which were already under vine during Churchill's lifetime. Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is only made in the very best vintages and is always released later than the other vintage dated Champagnes from Pol Roger, marking Churchill's appreciation for older wines.

Vinification & Maturation

The must undergoes two débourbages (settlings), one at the press house immediatly after pressing and the second, a débourbage à froid, in stainless steel tanks at 6°C over a 24 hour period. A slow cool fermentation with the temperature kept under 18°C takes place in stainless steel with each variety and each village kept seperate. The wine undergoes a full malolactic-fermentation prior to final blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in the deepest Pol Roger cellars (33 metres below street level) where the wine is kept until it undergoes remuage (riddling) by hand, a rarity in Champagne nowadays. The very fine and persistent mousse for which Pol Roger is renowned owes much to these deep, cool and damp cellars.

Tasting notes

The wine displays an intense golden-yellow hue and a lively stream of defined bubbles. Upon initial impression, the nose reveals aromas of freshly squeezed lime and some autolytic development. As the wine evolves, complex aromas of lightly toasted brioche coupled with raisins and candied fruit become apparent. The enticing aromas expressed on the nose are reinforced on the palate, boasting a powerful, rich structure, yet well-balanced with intensely flavourful notes of honey and citrus, lending a refreshing acidity. The finish shows a remarkable length, typical of the 2002 wines, as well as being both rich and full-bodied.

Food pairings

The weight, balance and mineral freshness means that this champagne could be served with Parmigano Reggiano matured for 18 months, a stuffed capon façon demi-deuil or sweetbreads cooked with morels.

The « Cuvée »

Champagne Pol Roger created their Prestige Cuvée in homage to Sir Winston Churchill mindful of the qualities that he sought in his champagne : robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity. The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet with the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated : "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best". Pinot Noir predominates, providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst Chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety. Composed exclusively of grapes sourced from Grands Crus Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards which were already under vine during Churchill's lifetime. Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is only made in the very best vintages and is always released later than the other vintage dated Champagnes from Pol Roger, marking Churchill's appreciation for older wines.

Vinification & Maturation

The must undergoes two débourbages (settlings), one at the press house immediatly after pressing and the second, a débourbage à froid, in stainless steel tanks at 6°C over a 24 hour period. A slow cool fermentation with the temperature kept under 18°C takes place in stainless steel with each variety and each village kept seperate. The wine undergoes a full malolactic-fermentation prior to final blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in the deepest Pol Roger cellars (33 metres below street level) where the wine is kept until it undergoes remuage (riddling) by hand, a rarity in Champagne nowadays. The very fine and persistent mousse for which Pol Roger is renowned owes much to these deep, cool and damp cellars.

Tasting notes

The wine displays a mid golden yellow colour and continuous stream of delicate bubbles. An elegant and powerful nose with toasted brioche over fresh quince, peach and apricot with an underlying floral character and high toned cinnamon spice with hints of lime leaf. A balanced palate with weight, power, a velvety texture and a long persistent pure acidity. With weight and complexity characteristic both of the terroir and vintage. A long aftertaste with a light touch of citric acidity bringing together a wine of undeniable majesty. Already drinking well now and will continue to improve over the medium term.

Food pairings

The weight, balance and mineral freshness means that this champagne could be served with Parmigano Reggiano matured for 18 months, a stuffed capon façon demi-deuil or sweetbreads cooked with morels.

The « Cuvée »

Champagne Pol Roger created their Prestige Cuvée in homage to Sir Winston Churchill mindful of the qualities that he sought in his champagne : robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity. The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet with the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated : "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best". Pinot Noir predominates, providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst Chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety. Composed exclusively of grapes sourced from Grands Crus Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards which were already under vine during Churchill's lifetime. Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is only made in the very best vintages and is always released later than the other vintage dated Champagnes from Pol Roger, marking Churchill's appreciation for older wines.

Vinification & Maturation

The must undergoes two débourbages (settlings), one at the press house immediatly after pressing and the second, a débourbage à froid, in stainless steel tanks at 6°C over a 24 hour period. A slow cool fermentation with the temperature kept under 18°C takes place in stainless steel with each variety and each village kept seperate. The wine undergoes a full malolactic-fermentation prior to final blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in the deepest Pol Roger cellars (33 metres below street level) where the wine is kept until it undergoes remuage (riddling) by hand, a rarity in Champagne nowadays. The very fine and persistent mousse for which Pol Roger is renowned owes much to these deep, cool and damp cellars.

Tasting notes

Intense, yellow gold, sparkling with a myriad of fine bubbles - the Pol Roger trade-mark. The nose is structured, forceful but with subtle mineral notes and hints of lemon, white Pepper and Ginger. Four-square on the palate, mouth filling, robust and powerful. Touches of minerality, even saltiness, with balance, structure and finesse. A long lingering finish.

Food pairings

A wine full of character to enjoy for itself - or pair it with hard cheeses such as Comté or Parmesan.

The « Cuvée »

The "Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill", Champagne Pol Roger's Prestige Cuvée, was created in homage to Sir Winston Churchill, mindful of the qualities that he prefered in his champagne: robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity.

The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated: "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best."

Composed exclusively from grapes from grand cru pinot noir and chardonnay vineyards which were already under vine during Churchill's lifetime, it is only ever made in the very best vintages.

The blend is a reflection of the spirit of his character with the dominance of pinot noir providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst the chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety.

The vintage of the "Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill" is always staggered so as to be one step behind the release of other vintage-dated champagnes from Pol Roger.

Vinification & Maturation

The must undergoes two débourbages (settlings), one at the press house immediatly after pressing and the second, a débourbage à froid, in stainless steel tanks at 6°C over a 24 hour period. A slow cool fermentation with the temperature kept under 18°C takes place in stainless steel with each variety and each village kept seperate. The wine undergoes a full malolactic-fermentation prior to final blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in the deepest Pol Roger cellars (33 metres below street level) where the wine is kept until it undergoes remuage (riddling) by hand, a rarity in Champagne nowadays. The very fine and persistent mousse for which Pol Roger is renowned owes much to these deep, cool and damp cellars.

Tasting notes

A colour of brilliant critrine yellow infused with deeper gold, crowned by a delicate mousse of tiny bubbles, suggests both youth and concentration. The bouquet develops in progressive stages, opening with notes of the forest floor and leafy scents of moss and field mushrooms. As the wine warms slightly in the glass, the nose reveals fresher, acidic notes of citrus fruits and mint. And then a further range of scents: suave, vegetal notes of acacia, hawthorn, noisette and hazelnut. A champagne evocative of autumn!

In the mouth, a fine balance is established between a fresh acidity and the assertive young tannins which provide the "body" of the wine. This balance underscores a palate which is at once robust and fine. The structure is compact and muscular: the mouthfeel solid but in no way clumsy or overweight. These impressions are reinforced by an elegant length on the finish, reminiscent of the lingering complexity of a classic red wine. A champagne like a rich fabric in which to enfold the most sumptuous cuisine.

Food pairings

In the context of gastronomy, the watchwords are: simplicity within complexity. The Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill 1998 is best suited to accompany dishes that are at once tender, mellow in texture and dominated by the flavours of field and forest: such as leg of lamb with rosemary or mint sauce, or coquilles Saint-Jacques (scallops) leading in to a minute steak dressed with olive oïl and black truffles, a tournedos grilled with morels, or even a simple "pot au feu" of foie gras with baby vegetables.

The « Cuvée »

The "Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill", Champagne Pol Roger's Prestige Cuvée, was created in homage to Sir Winston Churchill, mindful of the qualities that he prefered in his champagne: robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity.

The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated: "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best."

Composed exclusively from grapes from grand cru pinot noir and chardonnay vineyards which were already under vine during Churchill's lifetime, it is only ever made in the very best vintages.

The blend is a reflection of the spirit of his character with the dominance of pinot noir providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst the chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety.

The vintage of the "Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill" is always staggered so as to be one step behind the release of other vintage-dated champagnes from Pol Roger.

Vinification & Maturation

The must undergoes two débourbages (settlings), one at the press house immediatly after pressing and the second, a débourbage à froid, in stainless steel tanks at 6°C over a 24 hour period. A slow cool fermentation with the temperature kept under 18°C takes place in stainless steel with each variety and each village kept seperate. The wine undergoes a full malolactic-fermentation prior to final blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in the deepest Pol Roger cellars (33 metres below street level) where the wine is kept until it undergoes remuage (riddling) by hand, a rarity in Champagne nowadays. The very fine and persistent mousse for which Pol Roger is renowned owes much to these deep, cool and damp cellars.

Tasting notes

This champagne is clear yellow-gold threaded through with delicate bubbles.

From the very first smell the nose is overt and generous with hints of tobacco, fresh butter and nuts. As it evolves, the wine's strong personality asserts itself: the initial freshness gives way to an impression of power and vigour with heady notes of violet, liquorice, wood, leather and the merest hint of iodine. This complexity is a sure sign of the maturity of the wines - a characteristic of the 1996 vintage.

In the mouth, the wine's breadth is impressive: it is vinous yet there is a presence of something tart, almost astringent, dry and angular. As it develops this delicate minerality brings to the wine the finesse necessary to support its imposing weight. The finish is astonishingly long. This is a masculine champagne, which makes a very self-assured and memorable impression.

Food pairings

The Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill 1996 finds it's a natural ally of the dining table. Roasted meats, for example, such as duck breast with citrus based sauces and fresh tarragon or even pigeons in a foie gras sauce would act as perfect foils for the wine's great balance between force and finesse, presence and delicacy.

The « Cuvée »

Champagne Pol Roger created their Prestige Cuvée in homage to Sir Winston Churchill mindful of the qualities that he sought in his champagne : robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity.

The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet with the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated : "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best". Pinot Noir predominates, providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst Chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety.

Composed exclusively of grapes sourced from Grands Crus Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards which were already under vine during Churchill's lifetime. Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill is only made in the very best vintages and is always released later than the other vintage dated Champagnes from Pol Roger, marking Churchill's appreciation for older wines.

Vinification & Maturation

The must undergoes two débourbages (settlings), one at the press house immediatly after pressing and the second, a débourbage à froid, in stainless steel tanks at 6°C over a 24 hour period. A slow cool fermentation with the temperature kept under 18°C takes place in stainless steel with each variety and each village kept seperate. The wine undergoes a full malolactic-fermentation prior to final blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in the deepest Pol Roger cellars (33 metres below street level) where the wine is kept until it undergoes remuage (riddling) by hand, a rarity in Champagne nowadays. The very fine and persistent mousse for which Pol Roger is renowned owes much to these deep, cool and damp cellars.

Tasting notes

The wine displays a mid golden yellow colour and continuous stream of delicate bubbles. An elegant and powerful nose with toasted brioche over fresh quince, peach and apricot with an underlying floral character and high toned cinnamon spice with hints of lime leaf. A balanced palate with weight, power, a velvety texture and a long persistent pure acidity. With weight and complexity characteristic both of the terroir and vintage. A long aftertaste with a light touch of citric acidity bringing together a wine of undeniable majesty. Already drinking well now and will continue to improve over the medium term.

Food pairings

The weight, balance and mineral freshness means that this champagne could be served with Parmigano Reggiano matured for 18 months, a stuffed capon « façon demi-deuil » or sweetbreads cooked with morels.