The Pol Roger Vintage 2013 marks a notable achievement in the realm of premium champagne. This vintage champagne exemplifies the mastery and tradition of the Pol Roger house. It is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that promises a profound sensory experience for connoisseurs.
The 2013 vintage is a harmonious blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, sourced from the esteemed Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards. It underwent a seven-year aging process in Pol Roger’s deep cellars, refining its intricate character. With an alcohol content of 12.5%, it embodies a delicate balance between robustness and refinement.
Wine critics have lauded this vintage champagne. Wine Enthusiast bestowed it with a commendable 96 points, while Wine Advocate awarded it 94 points. These accolades underscore the outstanding quality of this 2013 release. Available at $99.00 retail, it presents a remarkable value for a champagne of such stature.
Key Takeaways
- Pol Roger Vintage 2013 is a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay
- The champagne aged for 7 years before release
- It received high ratings from Wine Enthusiast (96 points) and Wine Advocate (94 points)
- The retail price is $99.00
- Limited quantities are available
- Experts recommend further aging, with peak maturity expected around 2022
- Mix 6 Discount is available for purchases
Introduction to Pol Roger’s 2013 Vintage Expression
Pol Roger, a name synonymous with champagne excellence, presents its 2013 vintage. This release embodies the house’s unwavering dedication to quality and tradition in champagne production.
The Legacy of Pol Roger Champagne House
Established in 1849, Pol Roger has etched a distinguished place in champagne history. The house crafts approximately 125,000 cases annually from 85 hectares of vineyards. With cellars housing 7.5 million bottles, Pol Roger allocates an impressive 30% of its output to premium vintage champagne.
The Significance of the 2013 Vintage
The 2013 Brut Vintage is a harmonious blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay. It originates from 20 Grands and Premiers Crus vineyards in the Montagne de Reims and the Côte des Blancs. This vintage underwent a 7-year aging process, showcasing Pol Roger’s unwavering commitment to perfection.
Production Standards and Philosophy
Pol Roger’s production standards are uncompromising. The 2013 vintage embodies their philosophy of crafting champagnes with elegance and aging potential. Their commitment to quality is evident in their meticulous selection of grapes from top-rated villages and their extended aging process, which exceeds industry norms.
| Aspect | Pol Roger Standard | Industry Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Vintage Production | 30% | 6% |
| Aging (2013 Vintage) | 7 years | Varies |
| Vineyard Sources | 20 Grands and Premiers Crus | Varies |
Pol Roger Vintage 2013: Technical Specifications
The Pol Roger 2013 vintage champagne is a masterpiece, crafted with precision. It combines 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, sourced from the finest Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards. The Pinot Noir adds a robust structure, while the Chardonnay brings elegance and finesse.
This champagne undergoes a unique aging process, resting in Pol Roger’s deep, cool cellars for 8 years. This extended maturation period allows for the development of complex flavors and the creation of fine, persistent bubbles. These bubbles are a hallmark of high-quality champagne.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Blend | 60% Pinot Noir, 40% Chardonnay |
| Vineyards | Grand Cru and Premier Cru |
| Aging | 8 years in cellars |
| Alcohol Content | 12.5% |
| Dosage | 7 g/l |
The vintage champagne details include a malolactic fermentation process before final blending, adding complexity. Hand-riddling, a rare technique in modern champagne production, ensures the highest quality. These techniques result in a champagne with an intense golden hue, aromas of dried flowers and candied fruit, and a palate balancing citrus freshness with notes of quince and green tea.
Critics have praised the Pol Roger Vintage 2013, with scores ranging from 93 to 94 points from respected publications like Wine Enthusiast and The Wine Advocate. These accolades highlight the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of this vintage release.
The Distinctive Blend and Vineyard Selection
Pol Roger’s 2013 Vintage exemplifies the house’s skill in creating outstanding champagne. It combines 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, achieving a harmonious balance between robustness and delicacy.
Grape Composition
The 2013 vintage’s composition underscores Pol Roger’s dedication to excellence. Pinot Noir contributes a rich, full-bodied character, while Chardonnay introduces a refined, elegant touch to the blend.
Premier Vineyards
Grapes for this vintage are sourced from 20 Grand Cru vineyards in the esteemed regions of Montagne de Reims and Côte des Blancs. These vineyards are meticulously chosen, ensuring the wine’s exceptional quality and complexity.
Champagne Aging Process
The 2013 vintage undergoes a prolonged aging process in Pol Roger’s deep, cool cellars. This seven-year maturation period refines the wine’s complexity and enhances its fine bubbles, culminating in a champagne of unparalleled excellence.
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Pinot Noir | 60% – Adds structure and robustness |
| Chardonnay | 40% – Contributes elegance and finesse |
| Vineyard Sources | 20 Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards |
| Aging Duration | 7 years in Pol Roger’s cellars |
Visual and Aromatic Profile
The Pol Roger 2013 presents itself with a pale golden hue, embodying refined elegance. Tiny bubbles ascend in a captivating stream, forming a delicate mousse at the surface. This visual display heralds an extraordinary sensory journey.
Color and Effervescence
The champagne’s color mirrors the brilliance of sun-kissed wheat fields, a pale gold. Its effervescence is lively and continuous, creating a hypnotic spectacle. This hints at the wine’s complexity and depth.
Bouquet Development
As the Pol Roger 2013 opens, its aroma unfolds in layers. Initial notes of almond and cashew transition to subtler fragrances of small candied seeds. Mineral and floral undertones add depth and intrigue to its aromatic profile.
Evolution in the Glass
Over time, the bouquet evolves, revealing new dimensions. Warm scents of freshly baked Viennese pastries emerge, blending with delicate toasty notes. This progression showcases the wine’s complexity, promising a rich, multifaceted tasting experience.
| Aroma Stage | Primary Notes | Secondary Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Initial | Almond, Cashew | Candied Seeds |
| Developing | Mineral, Floral | Toast |
| Mature | Viennese Pastries | Intense Richness |
Tasting Notes and Palate Expression
The Pol Roger 2013 vintage offers a captivating journey for champagne aficionados. It presents a complex flavor profile that evolves elegantly on the palate. The initial sip is crisp and fresh, balanced by a surprising roundness and suppleness.
As the wine progresses, a creamy texture emerges, evoking delicate pastries. Toasted aromas complement this richness, adding depth to the experience. The Pol Roger 2013 vintage showcases an exceptional balance between its 12.5% alcohol content and a dosage of 7 grams per liter. This results in a harmonious blend of power and finesse.
The finish is where this champagne truly excels. A long-lasting, intense aftertaste lingers, featuring subtle hints of white flowers. An exquisite salinity rounds out the tasting experience, leaving a memorable impression. This unique combination of flavors has garnered high ratings from critics, with scores ranging from 95 to 97 points across various respected wine publications.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Initial Taste | Crisp, fresh, acidulous |
| Texture | Round, supple, creamy |
| Aromas | Pastry, toasted notes |
| Finish | Long-lasting, white flowers, saline |
The Pol Roger 2013 vintage’s impressive flavor profile and structure suggest excellent aging potential. While enjoyable now, experts recommend cellaring until 2024. Peak drinking is projected through 2044 for optimal appreciation of its evolving complexities.
Critical Acclaim and Expert Reviews
The Pol Roger 2013 has received widespread acclaim in champagne reviews, cementing its status as a premier vintage. Wine critics and industry experts have lauded this release for its outstanding quality and potential for aging.
Wine Enthusiast Evaluation
Wine Enthusiast awarded the Pol Roger 2013 a remarkable 96 points. The review commends the champagne’s ripe style and notes its progression towards maturity. It signifies a vintage crafted with precision, now at its optimal drinking stage.
Wine Advocate Scores
The Wine Advocate gave the Pol Roger 2013 a score of 94 points. It is described as a “beautifully chiseled, incisive wine,” appealing to those who value purity. This score emphasizes the champagne’s meticulous craftsmanship and precision.
Industry Expert Opinions
Industry experts have consistently praised the Pol Roger 2013 for its harmonious blend of crisp minerality and richness. Many foresee significant aging potential, predicting that it will continue to refine and enhance over time.
| Critic | Score | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wine Enthusiast | 96/100 | Ripe style, approaching maturity |
| Wine Advocate | 94/100 | Beautifully chiseled, appeals to purists |
| James Suckling | 97/100 | Exceptional quality, complex flavors |
| Decanter | 95/100 | Balanced structure, aging potential |
The Pol Roger 2013 vintage has garnered consistent high scores from leading wine publications. These accolades underscore its exceptional quality, balance, and potential for further development. It stands as a valuable addition to any connoisseur’s collection.
Aging Potential and Storage Recommendations
The Pol Roger 2013 boasts an exceptional cellaring potential, promising a journey of profound flavor evolution. This vintage champagne, with proper aging, reveals its true essence, transforming into a complex and nuanced wine over time.
Wine connoisseurs recommend a drinking window from 2022 to 2035, showcasing the wine’s graceful maturation. As it ages, the development of toasty notes and increased complexity will enhance its already impressive profile.
To ensure optimal champagne aging, store your Pol Roger 2013 in cool, dark conditions. Ideal temperatures range from 10-15°C (50-59°F), with humidity levels around 70-80%. These conditions are crucial for preserving the wine’s quality and allowing it to age gracefully.
| Vintage | Rating | Aging Potential |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 Pol Roger | 96/100 (Wine Advocate) | 13+ years (2022-2035) |
| 2008 | 99/100 | 20+ years |
| 2012 | 96/100 | 15+ years |
| 1996 | 97/100 | 25+ years |
While the 2013 vintage is ready for immediate enjoyment, patience is rewarded for the discerning collector. The wine’s structure, acidity, and balance contribute to its longevity, making it a valuable addition to any cellar.
Food Pairing Suggestions and Serving Tips
Mastering the art of pairing Pol Roger with food and perfecting champagne serving techniques can transform your dining experience. The Pol Roger Vintage 2013 stands out as a versatile companion, complementing a wide array of cuisines. It offers a delightful balance to both delicate and rich dishes, enhancing their flavors.
Optimal Temperature
To fully appreciate this champagne, serve it at 8-10°C (46-50°F). This temperature range is crucial, as it preserves the wine’s crisp acidity and enhances its aromatic profile. It ensures that the champagne’s essence is at its best.
Glassware Selection
For serving, opt for tall, slender flutes. These glasses are designed to maintain the champagne’s effervescence and concentrate its delicate aromas. This ensures an optimal tasting experience, allowing the full complexity of the champagne to be appreciated.
Complementary Dishes
The Pol Roger Vintage 2013 pairs exceptionally well with seafood, poultry, and creamy cheeses. Its complexity complements a wide range of flavors, from light appetizers to rich main courses. This versatility makes it a favorite among connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
| Dish Type | Recommended Pairing |
|---|---|
| Seafood | Oysters, scallops, prawns |
| Poultry | Roasted chicken, turkey |
| Cheese | Brie, Comté, goat cheese |
| Vegetarian | Grilled vegetables, mushroom risotto |
For a truly indulgent experience, pair this champagne with caviar. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of the roe, creating a harmonious balance on the palate. This combination is a classic for a reason.
Remember, champagne serving is an art. Open the bottle carefully to preserve its bubbles, and pour slowly along the side of the glass to maintain its effervescence. With these tips, you’ll create unforgettable dining moments with Pol Roger Vintage 2013.
Comparison with Other Prestigious Vintages
The Pol Roger Vintage 2013 distinguishes itself within the realm of champagne years, presenting a distinct character that diverges from its predecessors. This vintage exemplifies Pol Roger’s prowess in creating outstanding champagnes, even under adverse climatic conditions.
The 2013 vintage was marked by a late harvest and irregular ripening. Despite these challenges, it has emerged as a highlight for Pol Roger. It offers a harmonious blend of freshness and opulence, distinguishing itself from the sumptuous 2012 and the quintessential 2008 vintages.
Jean-Baptiste Lecaillon of Louis Roederer observes that the 2013 vintage occupies a middle ground between the 2008 and 2012. It is fruitier than the 2008 but retains a freshness akin to the 2012. This positioning makes the 2013 an attractive choice for connoisseurs seeking both depth and vivacity in their champagne.
| Vintage | Average Critics’ Score | Price per Bottle |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 95.7 | €185 |
| 2012 | 96.0 | €180 |
| 2008 | 95.0 | €170 |
The Pol Roger Vintage 2013 has received high accolades from critics, averaging 95.7 points. This score positions it marginally behind the celebrated 2012 vintage but ahead of the 2008, solidifying its reputation as one of Pol Roger’s most notable offerings.
Conclusion
Pol Roger Vintage 2013 is a shining example of the Champagne house’s legacy. As we near Pol Roger’s 175th anniversary in 2024, this vintage embodies their dedication to quality and tradition. It is a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, sourced from the finest Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards.
Wine aficionados and critics have lauded the Pol Roger 2013, highlighting its perfect balance of power and elegance. Scores from 91 to 94 points by Wine Spectator and Robert Parker solidify its status as a premier Champagne. Its rarity and high demand make it a prime candidate for vintage champagne investment.
The 2013 Blanc de Blancs, aged for six years, presents a stunning pale gold hue and delicate, elegant foam. Its bouquet is a symphony of dried fruits, white flowers, and pastry, leading to a palate that is perfectly balanced. The finish is a lingering echo of peach and dried fruit. This vintage is not just a valuable addition to any collection but also a fitting choice for memorable occasions. It captures the essence of Pol Roger’s heritage and its promising future in the world of fine Champagne.
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