Shop Pol Roger
1849 - 1899
In January 1849, Pol Roger, compelled by family circumstances, embarked on a new venture. His father, a notary, fell ill with an incurable disease, leaving Pol Roger to establish his own business. The inaugural sale of wine took place in the native village of Aÿ, where a local merchant became the first customer. With remarkable growth, the firm swiftly moved its operations to Epernay in 1851.
1900 - 1918
On the fateful day of 23rd February 1900, disaster struck as a portion of the cellars and buildings collapsed, resulting in the loss of five hundred casks and one and a half million bottles. Despite this setback, Pol Roger's sons, Maurice and Georges, took the helm of the company, displaying solidarity and determination to overcome this catastrophe. The brand's reputation continued to soar, attracting crowned heads and prestigious restaurants on the Champs-Elysées. However, the onset of the First World War temporarily halted the expansion.
1919 - 1945
Export opportunities became increasingly challenging due to Prohibition in the United States and the Russian Revolution. Nonetheless, Pol Roger Champagne managed to penetrate more markets, thanks to the family's direct control and unwavering commitment to preserving the brand's identity. The economic hardship caused by the Crisis of 1929 further complicated matters. Then, during the Second World War, the production and acquisition of Champagne fell under the control of the Wehrmacht when Germany occupied France.
1946 - 1999
The iconic figure of Winston Churchill left an indelible mark on the post-war era, declaring himself a loyal patron of the firm. In 1955, a significant increase in sales was observed, bolstered by an expanded range of wines that propelled Pol Roger's fame to new heights. Notable additions to the portfolio included the launch of a vintage rosé in 1961 and the creation of the revered Cuvée Blanc de Blancs. The legendary Cuvée Winston Churchill made its grand debut in 1975 at Blenheim Palace, initially available only in magnum bottles. Simultaneously, the company's vineyard expanded to 210 acres by 1999, with the United States emerging as its largest export market the previous year.
Since 2000
Embracing a more expansive sales strategy, Pol Roger appointed importers to represent the brand in Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Germany, and Australia. In 2001, the company introduced a new cuvée called "Rich," a demi-sec champagne. That same year, the logo and bottle underwent a redesign to better reflect the champagne's elegance and distinction. The house continued its innovation in 2007 with the launch of another cuvée, "Pure," an Extra Brut. To maintain its renowned excellence, Pol Roger meticulously sources the finest grapes from growers, supplementing its 92-hectare vineyard. From 2001 to 2011, the winery underwent a comprehensive renovation to ensure the consistent production of cuvées of unrivalled quality under the guidance of cellar master Dominique Petit.
Recent Years
Between 2011 and 2013, the 19th-century family home on rue Winston Churchill in Epernay underwent refurbishment, further honouring the brand's heritage. In April 2018, Damien Cambres assumed the role of cellar master, succeeding Dominique Petit, who had served the house for an impressive 19 years.
Shop Pol Roger
Experience the exceptional craftsmanship and timeless elegance of Pol Roger Champagnes. Shop now at The Reserve Cellar and indulge in the finest selection of this renowned brand.
