Both of these were absolutely excellent champagnes............so very different, but both great in their own unique style.

1990 Pol Roger Champagne Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill, Brut

All I can say is WOW!!!!!! I brought this bottle to the Melting Pot and we drank it with the White Chocolate/Bailey's Irish Cream fondue dessert. I chose not to eat much chocolate, but simply ate strawberries and pineapple with this wonderful champagne. This was absolutely the freshest, most lively champagne that I have tasted in quite some time. I have not been a huge fan of Pol Roger. In fact, I was very disappointed by the 1996 Rose as it did not suit my style, but my mind has certainly been changed. At first the nose was a bit subdued, but then fine aromas of white peach, pecan, honey, and cucumber. The moment that it hits your palate, it almost shocks you with its amazing power and bright flavor. The only thing I can equate the taste to is the sound made when you crunch into a fresh piece of celery. In fact, the champagne has a flavor of rising dough, fresh celery, peaches, wet stone and a tangy zing reminiscent of green tomatoes. The bead has a coarse texture, not fine and silky like many other high and bubblies, but it matches perfectly with the powerfully bracing flavor. I am almost disappointed that I drank this bottle, as it was my only one, but it was so good that I have no regret. I will definitely be buying more very soon. 97 Points

1990 Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque Fleur de Champagne Brut

Great. It seems that I prefer the 1990 Brut to the 1996. It has a crystal clear sandy color. Light and delicate with slight and tiny, but still present, bubbles. Very fresh aromas of sourdough, cherry blossom, honeydew melon, and a slight oxidative bitterness. On the palate it is silky smooth. The acidity balances out the warm caramel and coffee flavors well and the hint of lemon zest works well with the delicate flowery flavors ( honeysuckle and lilac? ) on the finish. This was a gorgeous example of why Champagne will always be the star of sparkling wine. It is so delicate, so silky smooth, and so complex. A beautiful creation that cannot be matched. 95 Points