Pol Roger 2002

Pol Roger's 2002 Brut Vintage is showing beautifully, bursting from the glass with an expressive bouquet of confit lemon and pear mingled with nuances of brioche, wheat toast, honeycomb and dried white flowers. Full-bodied, broad and textural, this is a rich, vinous Champagne that's ample and complex, underpinned by lively acids and concluding with a long, saline finish.

(Produced from 20 grand and premier cru vineyards in the Montagne de Reims and the Côte des Blancs, 40% chardonnay, 60% pinot noir, aged 9 years in the cellars before being released). This is beginning to display the initial hints of maturity with a hint of reduction to the otherwise pretty notes of baked bread, lemon rind and green apple. There is excellent complexity to the reserved and moderately austere finish that is not quite bone dry but it's close to it. This is a very classy but aloof effort that will most please those who enjoy a certain restraint and understatement to their bubbles. As the description would suggest this could be enjoyed now or held for a few more years first. 92/now+

Well balanced and slightly floral. Very fine acidity. Very similar build to the non vintage version. Drink 2011-2016

The Pol Roger 2002 is sitting a very attractive place at the moment. The nose bursts from the glass and welcomes you in with fresh dew-speckled Granny Smith apples, Alpine streams and citrus lemon. The palate is nicely focused - bright and refulgent with a delightful, oyster-shell tinged finish that lingers nicely in the mouth. Tasted November 2012.