Single-Owner Private Collection of Fine Wines from Burgundy, Bordeaux, Rhône Valley and more….
Timed Online Auction, 2 - 13 May 2024
Burgundy & Champagne
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
About this Item
In its 160 years of history, Pol Roger has carved out one of the strongest reputations in the select circle of the leading Champagne brands. Pol Roger was born on December 24, 1831, the son of a lawyer, he started his own champagne house in 1849, with the first growths released in 1853. Based around the town of Epernay, the house releases non-vintage cuvées every year, as well as three vintage wines, and the house’s prestige label – the Vintage Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill (as Churchill had a legendary thirst for Champagne, especially Pol Roger). For five generations, the descendants have been equally demanding, remaining loyal to the strategy initiated from the very beginning by the firm's founder. Today, the house is still owned and run by the family.
Champagne Pol Roger created their Prestige Cuvée in homage to Sir Winston Churchill mindful of the qualities that he sought in his champagne : robustness, a full-bodied character and relative maturity. The exact blend is a closely guarded family secret but it is undeniable that the composition would meet with the approval of the man to whom it is dedicated : "My tastes are simple, I am easily satisfied with the best". Pinot Noir predominates, providing structure, breadth and robustness whilst Chardonnay contributes elegance, finesse and subtlety.
Provenance
Private Client
Critics Ratings
‘Very sturdy, powerful and dry. Savoury again and with the green streak of this high-acid vintage, which Pol assessed as having 'the hallmarks of a Churchill vintage. Early comparisons were drawn with 1955.' More youthful than the 1999.’ - Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com, 17.5+/20 (Sep 2019)
‘Pol Roger’s 1996 Winston Churchill is fabulous. One of the most expressive, complete 1996s today, the Winston Churchill is in a great spot. Butter, spice, almond and lemon oil notes meld together effortlessly in the glass. In 1996, the Winston Churchill is a clear overachiever. Best of all, it remains reasonably priced vis-à-vis its peers.’ - Antonio Galloni, Vinous, 95/100 (Oct 2014)
‘The structure of the 1996 vintage is softened by a fine, silky mousse in this intensely wrought bubbly. Fresh, with citrus, berry, nut and coffee aromas and flavors and a rounded finish. Drink now through 2015.’ - Bruce Sanderson, Wine Spectator, 93/100
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