June 20 – 28 2020 is English Wine Week and there’s no better excuse to explore and enjoy our local wines.
A bit of history
English wine production has improved dramatically in recent years. And, although the romans first planted vines, the industry is still relatively new with the boom really starting in the early 2000s. Even when I studied for my WSET qualifications in 2010, the wines of England and Wales were still emerging in the marketplace and were mostly known for sparkling wines only.
Today the UK has approximately 2500 hectares under vine, which is mostly situated in the South of England and Wales. Kent and Sussex are particularly successful as the chalky soils of the Downs are very similar to the soils in Champagne. Combine that with an increasingly warmer climate and you can understand why English wine is competing so well on the international stage.
About the wines
International grape varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are regularly seen in still and sparkling wines, whilst Bacchus is now established as the eponymous English grape variety.
This means that there is plenty to explore, many new exciting discoveries and something to suit most palates.
What to look for and what to expect – my personal favourites
Bacchus
Bacchus is sometimes referred to as the ‘Sauvignon Blanc’ of English wines because of its aromatic flavours and high acidity. Typical flavours and aromas of gooseberries, nettles, melon and stone fruits with a mineral finish. It’s a wine that works well with asparagus as well as spicy Thai and Chinese food. My personal favourite is the Chapel Down Bacchus Reserve.
Chardonnay
The English Chardonnays are fresh and crisp, similar to a Chablis style. Often unoaked the wine develops flavours and aromas of lemon, orange or grapefruit citrus, white stone fruits, apples and pears. Some also develop a subtle toastiness. Acidity is often quite high and very refreshing, so the wines match well with a range of foods from salads to fish to richer dishes such as quiches and tarts. I recently discovered the Martin’s Lane Chardonnay, which has become a staple for me!
Rosé
An English rosé with flavours of strawberries and cream is, for me, quintessentially English. They evoke images of country gardens, tea roses and, in any other year than 2020, Wimbledon. Along with strawberries and cream, expect to find redcurrants, blossom and a ‘made to make your mouth water’ acidity. These are wines to drink in the sunshine as an aperitif, with light summer salads or grilled vegetables. I keep my cellar well-stocked with the Chapel Down English Rose.
Pinot Noir
The English red wines are still developing – our climate is still too cool for most varieties – but Pinot Noir is one to look for. It is mainly grown for sparkling wine but when you do find an English red still wine then it’s one to really enjoy! I like to drink this style of wine slightly chilled which helps to balance the light tannins and high acidity. Then you get to enjoy flavours of strawberries and raspberries, which is perfect for lighter meat dishes, cheeses or even something slightly spicy. My choice is the Mount Vineyard which is produced just 20mins away from my home!
English Sparkling Wine
Finally, it is impossible to talk about English wine without looking at the sparkling wines. English Sparkling Wine is an internationally recognised quality designation, which means that you can buy with confidence when you see the words on the label. And no surprise given that year on year these wines out bid Champagne in blind tastings. There are many to choose from and some very famous labels, including Nyetimber and Gusbourne.
My pick is Squerryes, which is again very local to me. The Vintage Brut Reserve with a couple of years ageing (I’m drinking the 2013) is everything you might look for in a vintage Champagne. Using the same production and ageing methods as in Champagne gives rich aromas and flavours of citrus, apples and stone fruits with toasted brioche and hazelnuts. Perfect for any celebration or just because you can!
So, with that, raise a glass and enjoy English Wine Week – this week or any week!
About
Jo is an independent wine enthusiast, who is qualified as WSET Level 3 (with distinction). She is passionate about wine and enjoys sharing her advice through her blogs. Jo is also a keen photographer and loves taking the photos of wine almost as much as tasting it! Read more on My Story.
