Pol Roger, established in 1849, is celebrated for its graceful complexity. Winston Churchill, a devoted admirer, inspired the creation of the Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill, created to embody his taste for full-bodied Champagne. With the 30th of November 2024 marking the 150th anniversary of Churchill’s birth, it’s the ideal moment to toast with a bottle of Pol Roger.
Pol Roger Champagne occupies a distinguished position in the world of fine wines, known for its remarkable quality and heritage. As 2024 marks both the 175th anniversary of Pol Roger’s establishment and the 150th anniversary of Winston Churchill’s birth, it provides an excellent opportunity to explore the profound connection between the renowned British Prime Minister and the esteemed Champagne house.
Now in the hands of the fifth and sixth generations, Pol Roger maintains its independence and strong family values. Renowned for its purity of fruit and famously fine bubbles, the house has been producing exceptional Champagne for nearly two centuries. This captivating history not only highlights a cherished friendship but also underscores why Pol Roger remains one of the most prestigious Champagne houses in the world today.
Pol Roger: A Champagne House with Heritage
Founded in 1849 in the town of Épernay, Pol Roger has maintained its strong ties to tradition while continually pushing for excellence. What sets Pol Roger apart is its commitment to quality, ensuring that every bottle produced is the epitome of sophistication. From its world-famous Brut Réserve to the most luxurious of cuvées, Pol Roger Champagnes are renowned for their balance, complexity, and longevity.
Winston Churchill: The Man and His Favourite Champagne
Winston Churchill’s love for Pol Roger was no secret. First introduced to the house in 1944 by Odette Pol-Roger, the two developed a close friendship that would last for years. Churchill’s admiration for the house, dated back much earlier, with the first known invoice from him appearing in 1908 – likely for the 1896 vintage, highlighting his love for mature, vintage cuvées.
One of Churchill’s all-time favourites was the 1928 vintage, a Champagne so dear to him that Odette Pol-Roger ensured a case was delivered to him on his birthday every year. His fondness for Pol Roger was truly lifelong, with estimates suggesting he consumed around 42,000 bottles of the house’s Champagne over the course of his life.
Churchill’s passion for Champagne wasn’t confined by borders. During Prohibition in the United States, he famously secured a doctor’s note allowing him to continue his consumption of alcohol under the guise of medical necessity.
This deep connection between the Churchill family and Pol Roger has endured through generations. Most recently, a statue of Churchill was unveiled at the Pol Roger cellars, symbolising the lasting friendship between the Churchill/Soames and Pol Roger families.
The Sir Winston Churchill Vintage Champagne
As a tribute to this remarkable relationship, Pol Roger created the cuvée Sir Winston Churchill in 1975, ten years after Churchill’s passing. This luxury cuvée is a reflection of Churchill’s own preferences in Champagne – robust, mature and full-bodied. The exact blend remains a closely guarded secret, but it is predominantly made from Pinot Noir, reflecting Churchill’s preference for fuller-bodied styles.
Each release of this cuvée is a testament to both the exceptional quality of Pol Roger and the extraordinary man it was made to honour. The wine is aged for longer than most Champagnes, allowing it to develop a richness and complexity that is both powerful and refined. The latest 2018 vintage offers aromas of toasted almonds, ripe fruit and subtle spices, with flavours that unfold into layers of depth and intensity. Whether enjoyed today or laid down for future enjoyment, Sir Winston Churchill is a Champagne that epitomises luxury.
150 Years of Churchill’s Legacy
2024 marks the 150th anniversary of Winston Churchill’s birth, and as such, brings the perfect opportunity to raise a glass to both the man and the Champagne that accompanied him through many milestones. For Pol Roger, this celebration is not just a tribute to Churchill but also a chance to highlight the enduring relationship between Britain and Champagne itself.
Today, Pol Roger remains a byword for elegance and refinement. Whether you’re new to Champagne or a seasoned enthusiast, Pol Roger offers something for everyone. Its Brut Réserve is the ideal starting point, combining freshness with structure, while the vintage expressions show off the depth and ageing potential that Pol Roger is famous for.
What makes Pol Roger particularly appealing to both novice and experienced Champagne lovers is its approachability. The wines are crafted to be enjoyed at any stage, offering versatility whether you’re pairing them with food or simply celebrating life’s special moments. Its status as a favourite of Winston Churchill only adds to its charm, offering a sense of history and heritage in every sip.
A Toast to the Legacy of Pol Roger
As we celebrate 150 years since the birth of Winston Churchill, it’s the perfect moment to discover – or rediscover – the exceptional wines of Pol Roger. Whether you’re drawn to the story of Churchill’s fondness for the house or simply in search of a Champagne that delivers on every level, Pol Roger is a name that will never disappoint. With a reputation for excellence that stretches back over 170 years, this family-run house remains one of the shining stars of the Champagne world.
So, as we raise our glasses to Churchill and Pol Roger, it’s worth remembering the words of the man himself:
“My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best.”
Pol Roger 'Sir Winston Churchill' 2013/15 Vintage Champagne
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Pol Roger Vintage Champagne 2016/18
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