English Wine: I’m now officially converted

My wine career started about 20 years ago and it was a steep learning curve.

The thrill of tasting an extraordinary number of wines was just amazing and I can still remember the amazing and not so amazing wines along the way. One thing I could not get my head around, in the early days was Champagne. My palate just would not connect with the part of my brain which expressed pleasure when tasting it. Of course, that changed and a few years after my initial confusion of what is a great product, I now adore the stuff and will take a sip at any given opportunity.

In the realm of effervescent delights, Champagne has long reigned supreme, its name evoking luxury, celebration, and refinement. However, nestled amidst the rolling hills and verdant landscapes of England, a quiet revolution has been bubbling away. English sparkling wine, once dismissed as a novelty, has emerged as a serious contender in the world of fine wines. With its distinctive character, impeccable quality, and a unique terroir, English sparkling wine has captivated palates and garnered international acclaim.

The story of English sparkling wine traces its roots back to the chalky soils of southern England, reminiscent of the terroir found in the Champagne region of France. Blessed with similar geological formations and a cool climate tempered by the warming influence of the Gulf Stream, regions such as Sussex, Kent, and Hampshire have proven ideal for cultivating the classic grape varieties used in traditional method sparkling wine production.

At the heart of English sparkling wine lies the ubiquitous trio of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes, the very same noble varieties that form the backbone of Champagne. These grapes, carefully nurtured in English vineyards, yield wines of remarkable elegance, complexity, and finesse. From the crisp acidity of Chardonnay to the red fruit nuances of Pinot Noir and the floral aromatics of Pinot Meunier, English sparkling wines showcase a spectrum of flavours that reflect their unique terroir.

One of the defining characteristics of English sparkling wine is its artisanal craftsmanship. Unlike mass-produced counterparts, English sparkling wine is typically made using the traditional method, also known as méthode champenoise, wherein secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle, resulting in delicate bubbles and a fine mousse. This labour intensive process, coupled with meticulous attention to detail, imparts a sense of authenticity and individuality to each bottle.

In recent years, English sparkling wine has garnered a slew of accolades on the global stage, earning recognition from critics and enthusiasts alike. Prestigious awards and high scores have cemented its reputation as a world-class wine, prompting discerning consumers to seek out these hidden gems. From intimate family-owned estates to larger producers with a commitment to sustainability, the English sparkling wine industry has flourished, driven by a passion for quality and a dedication to excellence.

In conclusion, English sparkling wine has emerged as a true icon of the wine world, blending tradition, innovation, and terroir to create wines of unparalleled quality and distinction. From its humble beginnings to its current stature as a global player, the journey of English sparkling wine is a testament to the passion and dedication of its producers and the inherent beauty of its terroir.

Recently, I have been converted from being a Champagne purchaser (I do this for special occasions you must understand) to a wine I tried and fell in love with. It’s the Roebuck Estate Classic Cuvee.

 

THE ROEBUCK STORY:

Nestled in the heart of the Sussex countryside, close to the picturesque market town of Petworth, Roebuck Estates was founded by two friends who shared a passion for great wine and had a clear vision: to craft exceptional vintage sparkling wines every single year that could be enjoyed all over the world.

The inspiration for the name comes from the wild deer which are often seen roaming in their beautiful surroundings.  With the upmost respect for their land and like the roe deer itself, they aim to leave the lightest footprint on the environment.

Their six parcels of land span the beautiful counties of Sussex and Kent, and are known for their rich, fertile soils and exceptional quality fruit. On their estates they grow the classic trio of Champagne grape varieties, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Each vineyard has been planted with carefully selected varieties and clones best suited to that land.

So, the next time you wish to pour a drop of the good stuff for a celebration, raise a glass filled with this beautiful English delight.

 

Johnny Pearson

Regional Account Manager

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