2004 Pol Roger "Extra Cuvée de Reserve" Brut Champagne

“Just approaching maturity, this rich wine is sumptuous and complex. It has intense fruitiness, with apple and grapefruit flavors that are followed by a tight texture as well as the first signs of toastiness. It has plenty of life yet. Drink now–2024. *Cellar Selection* (RV)” (12/2014)

“A discreet 2004, this combines the structural power of pinot noir from the Montagne de Reims (60 percent of the blend) with the elegance of chardonnay grown in the Côte des Blancs. Completely knit into the wine’s toned musculature, those elements create a sensation of balletic power and grace. The flavors, a pale essence of floral cream, tangy lemon and spice, show themselves with clarity and purity, lovely to drink now and balanced for the long haul.” (12/2014)

“Vivid yellow. Ripe, mineral-accented orchard fruits and buttered toast on the deeply scented nose, with a sexy floral nuance in the background. On the palate, intense pear and tangerine flavors expand and gain spiciness with air. At once rich and lively, this Champagne finishes with excellent precision and lingering mineral and floral notes. (JR)” (12/2014)

“A crowd-pleaser, with overall harmony and elegance, this is hard to stop sipping, showing lively acidity and a fine, creamy mousse that carries flavors of black cherry and berry, pastry cream, honey and candied ginger. Presents a fresh, chalk-tinged finish. Drink now through 2027. 300 cases imported.” (12/2014)

“Toasty, biscuitty nose, with the fruit expression rather retient. Rich and very assertive, this is compact and bold, and different in character to the broader 2006. The acidity is quikry, almost gawky, but it accounts for its length of flavour. Youthful and will improve. A good food champagne. (SB)” (03/2020)