Winston Churchill's favorite Champagne was Pol Roger. This prestigious Champagne house had been Churchill's preferred choice since the 1920s. Churchill had a discerning palate and appreciated the quality and elegance of Pol Roger's wines.
I had the pleasure of learning about Churchill's love for Pol Roger during my sommelier training. The story of how Churchill's affinity for this Champagne brand came about is quite fascinating. It was during a lunch at the British Embassy in Paris in November 1944 that Churchill's preference for Pol Roger was solidified.
The British ambassador at the time, Duff Cooper, was well aware of Churchill's fondness for both beautiful women and fine Champagne. In an effort to create an enjoyable and memorable dining experience for the Prime Minister, Cooper strategically seated Odette, a beautiful and charming woman, next to Churchill. Odette's presence was meant to enhance Churchill's enjoyment of the lunch, but it was the choice of Champagne that truly delighted him.
Cooper, knowing Churchill's love for Pol Roger, made sure that this exquisite Champagne was served throughout the lunch. The combination of great company, delicious food, and the ever-flowing Pol Roger Champagne made for an unforgettable experience for Churchill.
As a sommelier, I can understand why Churchill was so enamored with Pol Roger. This Champagne house is renowned for producing exceptional wines that are both elegant and complex. Pol Roger's attention to detail, traditional winemaking methods, and commitment to quality have made them a favorite among Champagne aficionados.
Churchill's preference for Pol Roger was not just a passing fancy. He remained loyal to this Champagne house, and they reciprocated by creating a special cuvée in his honor. The Pol Roger “Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill” was first released in 1975 and has since become one of their most prestigious offerings. This Champagne is a testament to Churchill's discerning taste and his enduring love for Pol Roger.
Winston Churchill's favorite Champagne was Pol Roger. This Champagne house had the honor of being served at the British Embassy lunch in Paris in 1944, where Churchill's fondness for their wines was solidified. Pol Roger's commitment to quality and their ability to create elegant and complex Champagnes captured Churchill's heart, making it his preferred choice for many years to come.