Pol Roger Brut Vintage Champagne 2016 (Gift Box)

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1849 by Pol Roger in Épernay, Champagne, the Pol Roger Champagne House has remained family-owned for over 175 years. Renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition, Pol Roger has earned a prestigious reputation, notably as the favored Champagne of Sir Winston Churchill. The house produces approximately 110,000 cases annually, focusing on elegance, balance, and the expression of terroir. Pol Roger’s deep, cool cellars, located 33 meters underground, provide optimal conditions for aging, contributing to the finesse and longevity of their wines.

Producer and Winemaker

Pol Roger is currently managed by the descendants of the founder, maintaining its status as one of the few remaining family-owned Champagne houses. The winemaking team, led by Chef de Cave Damien Cambres, upholds traditional methods, including hand riddling and extended aging periods. Their meticulous approach ensures that each cuvée reflects the house’s signature style of refinement and complexity.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The 2016 Brut Vintage is crafted from a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, sourced from 20 Grand and Premier Cru vineyards in the Montagne de Reims and the Côte des Blancs. These regions are characterized by chalky soils and a cool continental climate, providing ideal conditions for Chardonnay to develop finesse, minerality, and vibrant acidity. The 2016 growing season presented challenges, but meticulous vineyard management resulted in grapes with excellent ripeness and balance.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes undergo two settlings (débourbages) before fermentation in stainless steel tanks at temperatures below 18°C. Each vineyard parcel is vinified separately, and the wine undergoes full malolactic fermentation. Secondary fermentation occurs in bottle at 9°C in Pol Roger’s deepest cellars, followed by hand riddling. The wine is aged on lees for six to seven years before disgorgement, contributing to its complexity and balance.

Tasting Notes

The 2016 Brut Vintage exhibits a pale yellow hue with silver highlights and a persistent stream of fine bubbles. The nose is expressive, offering aromas of dried fruits, citrus, lemon, and bitter orange. On the palate, it is rich and luscious, displaying buttery notes, hazelnut liqueur, and toasted overtones, all balanced by a tangy freshness. This Champagne combines power and finesse, culminating in a long, elegant finish.

Food & Wine Pairing

This elegant Champagne pairs beautifully with fine seafood dishes such as turbot, monkfish, or John Dory, especially when prepared with delicate sauces. Its richness and acidity also complement poultry dishes, creamy risottos, and soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert. As an aperitif, it offers a refined start to any meal, enhancing the flavors of canapés and light hors d’oeuvres.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 9°C to 10°C (48°F to 50°F) in tulip-shaped Champagne glasses to concentrate the aromas and showcase the fine mousse. No decanting is necessary. To preserve its delicate bubbles and freshness, open the bottle just before serving. This Champagne is ready to enjoy now but will also benefit from further aging.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. The 2016 Brut Vintage has excellent aging potential, expected to evolve gracefully over the next 10 to 15 years. Over time, it will develop additional complexity, with tertiary notes such as honey, toasted nuts, and brioche emerging, enhancing its depth and richness.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 95

• Wine Spectator: 93

• Wine Advocate: 94

• Robert Parker: 94

• James Suckling: 95