Thanks to Xiao P for the nice photos! Thanks to Luc for sharing the rose!

We had an interesting tasting session in mid April, featuring the 2002 line-up from Pol Roger. (The only one missing out is Pol's straight vintage 2002 – really hope I can catch up with it soon!)

Pol Roger Brut Blanc de Blancs 2002 (750ml)

Used to be called Pol Roger Blanc de Chardonnay, the old fashioned way that I very much prefer. 

Golden robe celebrating ripeness & maturity. Glittering fine beads.

Sweet toasty aromas complemented by delectable scents of ripe apple as well as hints of walnut. The attack on the palate is an instant knock-out: sumptuous, silky texture loaded with toast-fused ripe apple & citrus flavors, yet the vivacious mousse & underlying minerality keep the linearity.

The only pity is a little biting bitterness of harsh tannin (from mid palate to the finish), which fails to harmonize with the supple, voluptuous fruit.  

Pol Roger Brut Rose 2002 (750ml)

Orange-amber robe, with hues of flaring winter sunset. Understandably less evolved than its BDB sibling due to its added red wine. Nuances of ripe cherry & raspberry enhanced by hints of smoke. Silky, rounded texture thanks to super fine mousse & high content of Pinot. The deft balance quietly grows upon you, avoiding any dullness. 

Alas, the same pity for the little bothering bitterness of harsh tannin that cannot be resolved and stands out oddly against the delicious rest.  

Pol Roger Cuvee Sir Winston Churchill Brut 2002 (750ml)

Brioche-charged dark fruit, enlivened by succulent freshness of pear & peach.

Seamless, (subtly) rich and (quietly) vinous.

Mega structure, impeccable finesse & absolute completeness. What class & aura!