An exceptional harvest for the ‘English house’

2018 saw an exceptional crop in Champagne. Long, sunny summer days led to an early harvest. On the heels of the difficult 2017 vintage, the sight of abundant quantities of immaculate fruit being brought in warmed the hearts of the Champenois. While Decanter magazine describes the 2018 Chardonnay as ‘outstanding’, it rates the 2018 Pinot even more highly, scoring the vintage 5 out of 5 for Pinot. And Pinot Noir has always been the backbone of one of our favourite Champagnes: Pol Roger.

Pol Roger has long had a reputation as the ‘English house’. It goes all the way back to their founder’s early decision to favour a Brut style, which he knew the British market preferred. This reputation has stayed with them since, and they wear it with pride. But that’s far from the only thing they are known for; they have also garnered a reputation as a vintage specialist. And they only release vintage cuvées when the vintage merits it. 2018 does, amply.

2018 Pol Roger is made up from the blend the house traditionally favours: 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, from 20 grand and premier cru vineyards in the Montagne de Reims and the Côte de Blancs. It has delightful aromatics of pastry and stonefruit; on the palate, the taut, fresh, youthful structure is pleasingly set against the ripe generosity of the vintage. /NT

Offered subject to remaining unsold; for shipment Winter 2024