# Pol Roger Brut Vintage (2015)

- **Producer:** Champagne Pol Roger
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Pinot Noir, Chardonnay
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €105
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, nectarine, rose, orange, lemon, toast, pastry, brioche, butter, vanilla, hazelnut, almond, honey

## About this wine

Founded in Épernay in 1849, Champagne Pol Roger remains an independent, family-owned house managed by fifth-generation descendants. Famous as the preferred Champagne of Sir Winston Churchill, the estate produces vintage bottlings exclusively in exceptional years when grape ripeness, acidity, and aging capacity reach perfect equilibrium. The 2015 vintage blend comprises 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay sourced from 20 Grand and Premier Cru vineyards across the Montagne de Reims and Côte des Blancs.

## Interesting facts

- Sir Winston Churchill famously favored Pol Roger, remarking: 'In defeat I need it, in victory I deserve it.'
- Pol Roger cellars are among the deepest in Épernay at 33 meters underground, keeping temperatures unusually cool at 9°C.
- This Champagne is still riddled by hand, a rare traditional practice remaining in the region today.

## Food pairing

The bright acidity and fine mousse cut through rich, buttery textures, while the complex structure and vinous depth handle savory proteins and aged cheeses effortlessly.

## Wine making process

Must undergoes two cold settlings (débourbages) before a slow primary fermentation below 18°C in stainless steel tanks, preserving parcel-specific typicity. Full malolactic fermentation occurs prior to assemblage. Secondary bottle fermentation takes place in deep cellars 33 meters underground at a constant 9°C. The wine is aged on lees for 6 to 7 years and undergoes traditional hand riddling (remuage par main) before disgorgement with a 7 g/L dosage.