Pol Roger Winston Churchill Cuvee

Tasting Notes from the Curator

Pol Roger Winston Churchill Cuvee delivers an exquisite tapestry of aromas and flavors that surpass ordinary champagne. Beginning with its aromatic bouquet, one encounters vibrant tropical notes of ripe mango and honeydew, intertwined with the subtler essences of dried apricots and peaches. The citrus nuances, led by lemon curd and orange peel, offer a zesty lift. A distinct nutty layer emerges, cultivated through the rich scent of freshly baked brioche and almond paste, cloaked in a creamy butter pastry aroma. The complexity extends with intriguing spice elements, with whispers of pepper and a toasty warmth reminiscent of freshly baked bread, intertwined with the soothing sweetness of vanilla and honeycomb.

The flavor profile is equally compelling; the champagne gracefully melds candied richness with luscious tropical fruits such as papaya, pear, and quince. Combining these with a twist of citrus zest reminiscent of crème de cassis, the blend offers a remarkably rounded, harmonious experience. Overlaying its rich structure is the creaminess of brioche pastries, nougat, and caramel, creating not only a layered texture but also a memorable mouthfeel, elevated by its mineral and salty finish—that rare union of elegance and indulgence. The Pol Roger’s distinguished mousse is fine and persistent, completing a well-defined acidity that ensures a refreshing, lasting impression on the palate.

Pairings & Suggestions

Rich Dishes:

• Herb-roasted chicken seasoned with rosemary, thyme, and lemon complements the champagne’s complexity perfectly.
• Duck à l’Orange, with its sweet and tangy sauce, accentuates the fruity notes.

Seafood:

• Grilled lobster brushed with garlic butter highlights the minerality of the champagne.
• Fresh oysters served on the half shell offer a refreshing partner with the champagne’s acidity.

Fine Cheeses:

• Soft cheeses such as brie or camembert pair beautifully, enhancing creamy textures.
• Aged Comté or Gouda enriches the champagne’s nutty undertones.

Sweet Delights:

• Indulge in fruit tarts with vibrant pastry cream.
• Dark chocolate fondant provides a delightful contrast to the champagne’s acidity.

Exploring a Fabled Partnership

The Pol Roger Winston Churchill Cuvée tells the story of an extraordinary alliance between the iconic British wartime leader and the esteemed French champagne house. This relationship was more than a mere business association; it was a sincere friendship steeped in respect and admiration. Sir Winston Churchill’s fondness for Pol Roger’s champagne started long before the Second World War, when he found immense satisfaction in its exquisite taste and poised character.

The bond was deepened through an exchange of correspondence between Churchill and Odette Pol-Roger, who was as enchanted by Churchill’s charisma as he was by her warmth and the champagne she produced. In fact, such was Churchill’s fondness that he named one of his racehorses “Pol Roger”, a testament to the impact the brand had on his life.

Upon Churchill’s passing, the Pol Roger house crafted the Winston Churchill Cuvée, choosing a blend that symbolizes strength and finesse—tributes to Churchill’s personal and public legacy. Secretive in its exact nature but made from the finest Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Grand Cru vineyards, it embodies everything Churchill admired, making each bottle not just a drink but a celebration of shared excellence and historical reflection.

Taste Profile

Technical Sheet

Storage Instructions

Store Pol Roger at 10-12°C (50-54°F) in a stable, cold, dark environment with humidity around 60-80%. Keep upright to maintain carbonation and prevent oxidation.