Pol Roger Brut Réserve, Champagne

The latest rendition of Pol Roger’s NV Brut Réserve is based on the 2021 vintage and includes 30% reserve wines from the 2020, 2019 and 2018 vintages. Disgorged in October 2024 with a dosage of eight grams per liter, the wine bursts from the glass with an expressive bouquet of crisp pear, orange zest, ripe peach and delicate pastry notes. On the palate, it is medium- to full-bodied, with a vibrant core of fruit and admirable balance, despite what might sound like a relatively generous dosage. It is infused with bright acidity and culminates in a persistent, saline finish. Composed in equal parts of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, this cuvée is immediately appealing upon release yet possesses the structure to reward several years of cellaring, revealing the charm of a finely matured Champagne.

91 points robertparker.com

A complex, reliable Champagne that would show well in all occasions thanks to its freshness and class. Drawing on all three grapes (chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier), this has a complex grilled-nut and autolysis character overlayed across red berries and citrus fruits. Definitely a lot of reserve wine character here. The palate delivers lemons, grapefruit, peaches and mangoes in a refreshingly pure, fleshy style. The bright acidity, handy balance and tannins smoothly frame the finish. Drink now.

92 points jamessuckling.com

Pol Roger Brut Réserve from Champagne is a timeless classic, often referred to as “White Foil” by devotees, and one of the most consistently outstanding non-vintage Champagnes in the world. Crafted by the Pol Roger family in Épernay since 1849, it perfectly embodies the house’s signature style of refinement, balance and understated luxury. Elegant yet generous, it’s a wine that overdelivers in every sense — beautifully composed, effortlessly drinkable and remarkable value for its quality.

The blend is made from equal parts Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay sourced from 30 different crus across the Montagne de Reims, Vallée de la Marne and Côte des Blancs. Each component contributes something essential: Pinot Noir brings structure and power, Meunier adds fruit and approachability, and Chardonnay provides finesse and lift. After primary fermentation, the wine is aged for at least four years on lees in Pol Roger’s famously deep, cool chalk cellars, which contribute to its fine mousse, creamy texture and subtle complexity.

In the glass it shines pale gold with a stream of fine, persistent bubbles. The aroma is delicate yet inviting, showing apple, pear and citrus zest alongside hints of brioche, almond and white flowers. The palate is fresh, balanced and refined, with flavours of stone fruit, lemon curd and toasted hazelnut carried by crisp acidity and a creamy, silky mousse. The finish is long and graceful, perfectly blending freshness with depth.

It’s a Champagne that suits every occasion ideal as an aperitif, yet equally brilliant with seafood, oysters, roast chicken or sushi. Ready to drink now for its brightness and charm, it also has the concentration to age gracefully for several years.