Pol Roger Brut Réserve NV (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 170 years. Known for its commitment to quality and tradition, the house gained prominence as the preferred Champagne of Sir Winston Churchill, who became a lifelong devotee after tasting it in 1908. Pol Roger’s dedication to excellence is evident in its meticulous production methods and the consistent elegance of its wines. The house’s deep cellars, located 33 meters underground, provide optimal aging conditions, contributing to the finesse and complexity of their Champagnes.

Producer and Winemaker

Pol Roger remains under the stewardship of the founding family, with the fifth generation actively involved in the company’s operations. The winemaking team, led by Chef de Cave Damien Cambres, upholds the house’s traditional methods while embracing modern techniques to enhance quality. Their approach emphasizes precision in blending and aging, ensuring each cuvée reflects the house’s signature style of elegance, balance, and depth. The team’s dedication to excellence has solidified Pol Roger’s reputation as one of Champagne’s most esteemed producers.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

Pol Roger sources grapes from 30 different crus across the Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne, and Côte des Blancs regions. The vineyards benefit from a cool continental climate, with chalky soils that provide excellent drainage and impart a distinct minerality to the wines. The diverse terroirs contribute to the complexity and balance of the Brut Réserve, with each grape variety selected for its unique characteristics: Pinot Noir for structure and power, Pinot Meunier for freshness and fruitiness, and Chardonnay for finesse and elegance.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The Brut Réserve is a blend of equal parts Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay, incorporating 25% reserve wines to maintain consistency. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks, and the wine undergoes full malolactic fermentation to enhance its creamy texture. After blending, the cuvée is bottled and undergoes secondary fermentation in Pol Roger’s deep cellars, where it ages on the lees for a minimum of four years. This extended aging period contributes to the wine’s complexity, fine mousse, and signature elegance.

Tasting Notes

Pol Roger Brut Réserve NV displays a beautiful golden straw hue with abundant, fine bubbles. The nose is powerful and attractive, offering aromas of pear, mango, honeysuckle, white jasmine, vanilla, and brioche. On the palate, the wine is harmonious and fresh, with flavors of quince jelly, apricot jam, beeswax, and acacia honey. The finish is long-lasting, featuring fruity notes of candied orange peel and tangerine, complemented by spicy hints of cardamom and anise. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This versatile Champagne pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its freshness and complexity make it an excellent companion to seafood such as oysters, scallops, and lobster. It also complements poultry dishes, creamy cheeses, and light appetizers. The Brut Réserve’s balance and elegance allow it to enhance the flavors of both delicate and rich cuisines, making it suitable for celebrations and refined dining experiences.

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve Pol Roger Brut Réserve NV well-chilled at a temperature of 8°C to 10°C (46°F to 50°F) in a tulip-shaped Champagne glass to concentrate its aromas and preserve the effervescence. No decanting is necessary. Allowing the wine to rest in the glass for a few minutes before sipping can help it express its full aromatic profile. Enjoy it as an aperitif or throughout a meal to appreciate its complexity and finesse.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. While the Brut Réserve NV is ready to drink upon release, it possesses the structure to age gracefully for several years. Over time, the wine will develop additional complexity, with tertiary notes such as honey, toasted nuts, and deeper brioche characteristics emerging, enhancing its depth and richness.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 33% Pinot Noir

• 33% Pinot Meunier

• 33% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 92

• Wine Spectator: 92

• Wine Advocate: 92

• Robert Parker: 92

• James Suckling: 92