NV Pol Roger - Champagne Brut Reserve (750ml)

Pol Roger was founded in Épernay in 1849 and remains one of the last Champagne houses still run by the founding family, now in its fifth generation. The house built its reputation on a house style favoring depth and structure, drawing much of its Pinot Noir from top crus in the Montagne de Reims. Winston Churchill was a devoted admirer of the house for decades, and its top prestige cuvée now bears his name in tribute. Pol Roger has stayed independent even as many neighboring houses were absorbed by larger luxury groups, a point of pride the family still emphasizes today.

Brut Réserve is blended in equal parts Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier, sourced from around thirty different crus across the region. Pinot Noir from the Montagne de Reims contributes structure and power, Meunier from the Vallée de la Marne adds freshness and fruit, and Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs brings finesse. Reserve wines make up about a quarter of the blend, drawn from several earlier vintages to maintain a consistent house character year to year. The wine rests on its lees for an extended period before disgorgement, with dosage typically around eight grams per liter.

Pale gold in the glass with a steady stream of fine bubbles, this Champagne offers aromas of fresh pear, citrus blossom, and baked bread, with a light chalky undertone. The palate is medium-bodied and creamy, balancing ripe orchard fruit against crisp acidity, finishing clean and slightly saline. It works nicely as an aperitif or alongside smoked salmon, buttery pastries, or a simple seafood salad.