Pol Roger Brut Rosé 2018 (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. Renowned for its commitment to quality and tradition, Pol Roger gained prominence as the favored Champagne of Sir Winston Churchill. The house owns 87 hectares of vineyards across the Montagne de Reims, Côte des Blancs, and Vallée d’Épernay, producing approximately 110,000 cases annually. Pol Roger’s deep, cool cellars, extending 33 meters underground, provide ideal conditions for the slow maturation of their wines. 

Producer and Winemaker

Pol Roger is managed by the fifth generation of the founding family, maintaining its legacy of excellence. The winemaking team, led by Chef de Cave Damien Cambres, upholds traditional methods while embracing modern techniques to enhance quality. Their meticulous approach ensures each cuvée reflects the house’s signature style of elegance, complexity, and balance.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The grapes for the 2018 Brut Rosé are sourced from 20 Premier and Grand Cru vineyards in the Montagne de Reims and Côte des Blancs. The region’s chalky soils and cool continental climate contribute to the wine’s finesse and minerality. The Pinot Noir component includes 15% vinified as red wine from select vineyards in Bouzy, Ambonnay, and Cumières, imparting the rosé’s distinctive color and depth. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The must undergoes two settlings: one immediately after pressing and a second at 6°C over 24 hours. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks at temperatures below 18°C, with each grape variety and village kept separate. The wine undergoes full malolactic fermentation before blending. Secondary fermentation takes place in bottle at 9°C in Pol Roger’s deepest cellars, where the wine is aged on lees before riddling by hand—a rarity in Champagne today. 

Tasting Notes

The 2018 Brut Rosé displays a pale salmon hue with delicate pink tones and a fine, persistent effervescence. The nose is intense, offering aromas of raspberry, redcurrant, blackcurrant, mango, and papaya, evolving to floral notes of rose and honeysuckle. On the palate, it is mouth-filling with sophistication, showcasing ripe fruit flavors balanced by refreshing acidity and a long, chalky finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This vintage rosé pairs beautifully with grilled salmon, sushi, or duck dishes. Its vibrant acidity and fruitiness complement berry-based desserts, such as a rhubarb fool, enhancing both the dish and the wine’s structure. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve chilled at 6–8°C (43–46°F) in a tulip-shaped Champagne glass to concentrate its aromas and preserve the fine mousse. No decanting is necessary. Allowing the wine to rest in the glass for a few minutes will enhance its aromatic complexity.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store bottles horizontally in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. The 2018 vintage is approachable now but will benefit from additional aging, developing greater complexity over the next 10 to 20 years. 

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

60% Pinot Noir (including 15% vinified as red wine), 40% Chardonnay

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

12.5%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 94

• Wine Spectator: 94

• Wine Advocate: 94

• Robert Parker: 94

• James Suckling: 95