English sparkling wine has seen a remarkable surge in popularity in recent years, evolving into the libation of preference for occasions ranging from royal receptions to Michelin-starred banquets. It has even merited its very own celebration: English Wine Week.
What is it about this indigenous elixir that has captured the collective imagination? Beyond the gratification of supporting local production, English sparkling wine boasts an intricately layered flavor profile, reminiscent of its esteemed French counterpart, Champagne. In fact, it is swiftly ascending to challenge the reputation of its Gallic counterpart, with several prestigious Champagne houses investing in British vineyards to embark on their own English sparkling wine ventures.
The parallels between Champagne and English sparkling wine extend further than one might expect. Both adhere to the 'traditional method,' which entails a blend of chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier grapes. Nyetimber, a trailblazer in the English sparkling wine scene, planted its inaugural vines in 1988. We spoke with their maestro winemaker, Brad Greatrix, to unveil the alchemy behind this sparkling elixir.
"The traditional method entails a second fermentation within the bottle, yielding those delightful bubbles," Brad elucidated. "This diverges from more industrial approaches where the second fermentation transpires in tanks, such as in the production of Prosecco, for instance. Prosecco is fermented in a tank and subsequently bottled under pressure, resulting in a swifter and more cost-effective process."
While there are burgeoning variations like bacchus and seyval blanc, the bedrock of English sparkling wine remains firmly anchored in the traditional method, deploying chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier grapes.
Astoundingly, sparkling wine now commands approximately 80% of the cultivated vineyards in the country. Yet, beyond the shared methodologies, what sets English sparkling wine apart is its distinctive flavor profile.
"In essence, English sparkling wines reflect the quintessential fruits and flavors of our homeland," Brad expounded. "For instance, our rosé typically evokes the vibrant red fruits that flourish in England, such as strawberries and raspberries. Our temperate climate imparts a refreshing acidity indispensable for the extended aging required for top-tier sparkling wines. This acidity also lends a zesty note, with apple and lemon undertones gracing the palate."
Amid this cornucopia of choices, the true conundrum lies in selecting the perfect bottle. To assist in this endeavor, we undertook the arduous task of tasting some of the finest English sparkling wines currently available. We've included detailed tasting notes and a rating out of ten for each, providing you with a swift means of discerning their merits. - Philip Stephenson-Oliver
2009 Nyetimber 1086 Sparkling
2013 Hattingley Valley Kings Cuvee Sparkling
2009 Ridgeview Vintage Blanc de Blancs Brut
2011 Chapel Down Three Graces Sparkling
2015 Gusbourne Estate Sparkling Rose
Hambledon Vineyard Dosage Zero Premiere Cuvee Sparkling Rose
2011 Wiston Estate Blanc de Blancs Sparkling
2010 Digby Fine English Reserve Brut
2014 Bolney Estate Blanc de Blancs Brut
Camel Valley Pinot Noir Rose Brut