# Vinothèque Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill (1998)

- **Producer:** Pol Roger
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
- **Region:** Champagne, France
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €325
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 8–10 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** apple, pear, lemon, peach, cloves, pastry, vanilla, brioche, toasted bread, biscuit, honey, orange marmalade, dried apricot, almond, toasted bread, caramel, hazelnut

## About this wine

The Pol Roger Vinothèque Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill 1998 is the pinnacle expression from the esteemed Pol Roger house. This prestige cuvée is named in honor of Sir Winston Churchill, a loyal and significant client of the estate. The 'Vinothèque' designation indicates an extended aging period, allowing for the development of remarkable complexity. Pol Roger, established in 1849, is a distinguished independent, family-owned Champagne house renowned for its dedication to producing wines of exceptional quality and elegance, reflecting the unique terroir of the Champagne region. The 1998 vintage benefited from favorable weather conditions, contributing to the wine's structure and aging potential.

## Interesting facts

- Named after Sir Winston Churchill, a devoted fan of Pol Roger.
- The 'Vinothèque' bottling means extra time aging on lees.
- Pol Roger is one of the last family-owned Champagne houses.
- Churchill's preferred Pol Roger was the 1928 vintage.

## Food pairing

The wine's richness and complexity can stand up to robust flavors. Its acidity cuts through the richness of creamy sauces and fatty proteins, while its subtle nutty notes complement aged cheeses and roasted meats.

## Wine making process

The production of Pol Roger Vinothèque Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill 1998 follows the traditional method of Champagne winemaking. Grapes are typically fermented in stainless steel tanks. A blend, often dominated by Pinot Noir with a significant proportion of Chardonnay, is created. The wine then undergoes a secondary fermentation in the bottle, which creates the characteristic bubbles. The 'Vinothèque' bottling signifies an extended period of aging on lees, a key technique that contributes to the wine's complexity and texture. Riddling and disgorgement are performed to remove the lees before final corking.