The thought of Champagne conjures up thoughts of celebration, whether it's a birthday, the launch of a new ship or a wedding. However I believe everyday is a celebration, and what better than to toast the occasion with a glass of the good stuff!

Pol Roger, the prominent Champagne House in Epernay, France, invited a few of us to celebrate the release of their Blanc de Blancs 1999.

We were in for a very nice surprise as they had brought along four previous vintages of the Blanc de Blancs namely the 1988, 1990, 1996 and the 1998.

The term 'Blanc de Blancs' translated is literally 'white from whites' and in Champagne this usually refers to the Chardonnay grape.

One hundred percent Chardonnay Champagnes are well known for their ability to age and so it was no surprise that even the oldest vintage we tasted, the 1988, was exceptional.

It had developed a beautiful biscuity, almond and nougat flavour and if I were to have paired it with food I think of fresh crayfish grilled on an open fire! The other vintages were equally good but still offered incredible freshness almost belying their age.

Vintage Champagnes can only be produced in years of exceptional quality. This is a tradition observed by all Houses in the Champagne region. A vintage can be declared if the climatic conditions permits the production of grapes of outstanding ripeness. Vintage Champagnes must also have the ability to age so a higher level of acidity is also required.

The Pol Roger Blanc de Blancs 1999 has a pale straw colour with lots of fine bubbles. The aromas reminded me of brioche, almonds, violets with hints of marshmallow and musk in the background. On entry the palate explodes with the bubbles which, once settled, offers elegant yet rich and toasty citrus fruit flavours with a complex walnutty and biscuity finish.

This wine went well with Roasted Duck with a sweet and sour sauce. As for aging I would keep some till 2019!

Expect to pay: R930.

To order this wine contact Wine Concepts.