Pol Roger, Vintage, 2018

"Very zesty with strong citrus notes. Still quite tight from magnum but very respectable. CEO Laurent d'Harcourt of Pol remarked that 'it had to be good after 2017' and that it was made in much bigger quantity. Much is expected of the 2019."

"Pale lemon with a lively and persistent mousse and an attractive nose of Spring flowers, hawthorn and apple turnover, a hint of iodine too. Subtle and not thus far betraying the warmth of a generous vintage, the wine is composed yet incisive, fresh and yet profound, with orchard fruit and a citric cut shaping the palate, and notes of verbena and sourdough in support. Expertly crafted and forthright, without indulging to excess, the 2018 is poised and confident but far from brash and with a clear potential to evolve gracefully. The wine broadens beautifully with a little time in the glass, with hints of honey and biscuit evidenced, and will do so equally impressively in bottle over the next five years and beyond. I think this would score 93-95 points, the latter number reflecting how it will evolve and improve in the short to medium term."