POL ROGER BRUT RESERVE NV

Style: Champagne

The family-owned house has, in part thanks to the enthusiastic endorsement of Winston Churchill, for long been regarded with great generosity and indulgence on the British market; in size terms, it is just a little larger than Bollinger, but much smaller than regional giants such as Moet, Laurent-Perrier, or Lanson. Stylistically, its range is much lighter and more delicate than Bollinger, for example¿ [the Blanc de Blancs] is all it should be, full of early-flowering grace and vanilla charm, while the vintage wine has a fine track record for slow, steady ageing. The 'prestige' cuvée, named after the company's most famous customers, was only launched in the mid 1980s and requires age before it begins to show the surging intensity and grandeur of dimension of some of its rivals. ANDREW JEFFORD

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. JAMES SUCKLING

Region: Champagne, FRANCE

Variety: Blend

ABV: 13.5%

Liquor Act 2007. It is against the law to sell or supply alcohol to, or to obtain alcohol on behalf of a person under the age of 18 years. Lic No. LIQP770016424

*We endeavour to ensure the correct vintage is displayed, however some variations may occur in store and for delivered bottles.