Salt & Soul: The Best of Lisboa

Photo Credit: Kerry Murray

Salt. It’s in the air, on your lips, and is the essence of the country’s most exciting and underrated region. In Portugal's Lisbon region, the ocean's influence is everywhere. It’s in the wild, undulating landscape of the dramatic Atlantic coastline, and a defining characteristic that shapes everything, especially the wine.

Stretching 150km north of Lisbon along the Atlantic coast, the Lisboa wine region is a place of contrasts. It’s a place where sun-kissed vineyards meet dramatic, wave-battered shores. Here, the vineyards are never far from the ocean’s breath, a proximity that imparts a unique, energetic quality to the wines. This isn't just about the terroir; it's about the soul of the place – a complex mosaic of soils, centuries of tradition, and an effervescent people who seem to draw their energy from the same vibrant source as the vines.

Where the Ocean Meets the Vine

The ocean’s presence is undeniable, especially in the northernmost part of the Colares DOC. Just a stone's throw from the sea, where the land is buffeted by the Atlantic winds, you can taste the salt on your tongue as you wander through the vineyards. It's here that we find Haja Cortezia, a remarkable family project rooted in nurturing the land, local varieties, and the soulful connection to the sea.  The vines, some of them gnarled and ancient, stand with minimal trellising, their tendrils reaching toward the sea.

Photo Credit: Kerry Murray

The salty wind brings wines with invigorating, thirst-quenching acidity that’s as fresh and crisp as the sea air itself. The Malvasia grape, flourishes in this coastal climate, producing a white wine that’s bright and aromatic with a distinct mineral character – perfect for pairing with grilled sea bream – bliss!

Luis and Teresa embrace their historic vineyard dating back to the pre-phylloxera era, focusing on ancestral production, promoting natural terroir and history. Book in for a tour with owners, Teresa & Lois, ramble through the vineyards, and finish off with a tasting in their homely winery.

The Everest of Surfing

The stretch of coastline isn't just a haven for vines; it's a mecca for thrill-seekers. The dramatic beaches are known for their gigantic waves, none more so than Praia do Norte near Nazaré. Here, surfers brave what's often called the "Everest of Surfing." The waves are the biggest on the planet, a phenomenon caused by a unique, colossal underwater canyon that acts like a funnel, concentrating the ocean’s energy into spectacular, record-breaking swells.

The Portuguese writer and philosopher Fernando Pessoa captured this duality beautifully in his poem "Portuguese Sea": “God placed danger and the abyss in the sea, but he also made it heaven’s mirror.” It's a sentiment that perfectly captures this region – a place where the sea can be both a perilous force of nature and a source of breathtaking beauty and life.

Photo Credit: Kerry Murray

The same duality is perfectly captured in the local variety Ramisco. Portugal's answer to Nebbiolo, this is a red grape that survived the scourge of phylloxera, planted today on less than 20 hectares, mostly in the Colares region. It's a tannic, structured red with an ethereal nose and palate.

To truly understand it, hunt down a bottle of Quinta do Pinto 2017 Ramisco. This is a wine aged for seven years in a combination of oak and bottle before release. The tannins are smooth, the minerality is energetic, and the wild berry notes of crunchy cranberry, pomegranate, and black cherry carry through to an earthy, moreish character you simply can't put down. It's the taste of this unique terroir – a bottle that is both rugged and elegant, just like the coast it comes from.

A Tale of Forbidden Love

Beyond the wild coastline and thriving vineyards, the Lisboa region is a land of deep history and dramatic architecture. A must-visit is the UNESCO World Heritage site, Mosteiro de Alcobaça, one of Portugal’s first and finest examples of Gothic architecture. The Cistercian monks who founded the monastery were, in their wisdom, also master viticulturists, planting vineyards at the same time the church was being erected in the 12th century.

Inside, the light-filled nave, shaped like a Latin cross, is a sight to behold. But the real heart of the monastery lies in the two magnificent, intricately detailed tombs that lie facing each other on either side of the patibulum. These are the tombs of Infante Pedro and his forbidden love, Inês de Castro. Their story is a tragic one: Pedro's father, King Afonso IV, opposed the match and, in a fit of rage, ordered Inês's murder. The beautiful limestone carvings on their tombs immortalize their love story, depicting scenes from their lives and an intricate "Wheel of Life," forever uniting them in death.

From the salt on your lips to the stories in the stones, the Lisboa region is a place of profound flavour and endless fascination, a true feast for the senses.

Pair this historic monastery with the multi-vintage blend Malvasia Barra from a fourth-generation-run winery, Ramilo. By blending wines from 2016 to 2020, aging some in barrel under flor, the result is a wine that is both complex and completely unique to the region. A striking wine bringing a reductive nutty, malty, caramel character intertwined with orange peel and dried fruit – incredible winemaking.

A Taste of Lisboa

The Portuguese have truly mastered the art of coastal living, a rhythm of chasing waves and sharing in generous ocean feasts and flowing wine. To eat here is to participate in this beautiful ritual. 

Photo Credit: Kerry Murray

Slip into the lively Tasca da Ti' Augusta, a place Anthony Bourdain would have undoubtedly loved. It's a gem of pure, unpretentious joy where the food feels like a love letter from a Portuguese grandmother. The star of the show is the Caldeirada, a hearty fish stew that’s a true institution – a soulful, generous dish that tells a story of the sea in every mouthful.

Further north, just a stone's throw from the monastery in Alcobaça, lies O Cabeço. This restaurant is a temple to traditional cuisine, where rustic charm meets serious flavour. Both spots offer a genuine window into the real Portugal, a place where food is a celebration of history, community, and the simple, profound pleasure of sharing a meal. 

What better way to pair fish than with a wine that has been aged for eight months in the Atlantic? Quinta Da Casaboa’s Anfibio is a blend of Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, and Alicante Bouschet and aged at a depth of 10 metres.

The consistent temperature, protection from light, and gentle movement of the sea make for an incredible wine, fuelled by the energy of the ocean and brimming with notes of ripe red and black plum, damsons, stewed raspberries, and a touch of blood orange and spice. Just be sure to save the bottle, still covered in its aquatic growth, for the mantlepiece.

Embrace Nature with a Stay at Areis Do Seixo

Photo Credit: Kerry Murray

Beyond the romance and wild surf, the region offers a different kind of sanctuary. Tucked into the cliffs just an hour north of the capital lies Areias do Seixo, a place that redefines luxury. This isn't about gilded taps and starched linens; it's about a deep, soulful connection to the land. The architecture, with weathered concrete and reclaimed timber, blends seamlessly with the surroundings. Inside, each room is filled with suspended fireplaces, sheepskin throws, and driftwood furniture that whispers stories of the sea.

Here, you’re encouraged to slow down – to meander through their organic garden, where the herbs and vegetables for the most scrumptious dinners are grown, stroll down the rambling paths to the sea, or simply sit by the bonfire under a sky thick with stars. It's a place where the wild, untamed beauty of the Lisboa coast is not just a view from a window but an integral part of the experience.

6 Ukrainian Wines You Really Should Try

Photo Credit: Arsen Fedosenko

What do you know about Ukrainian wine? If I had to guess, probably not much. Unless you’re in the industry, it tends to fly under the radar. But it shouldn't. Ukrainian Riesling won the Grand Prix at the very first Paris Wine Expo in 1900. And that was just the beginning. In 2025, Ukrainian wines brought home four gold medals at the Decanter World Wine Awards.

At the Villa d'Este Wine Symposium on Lake Como, a blind tasting panel – including none other than the co-owner of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti and the then head winemaker at Dom Pérignon – placed a Cabernet Sauvignon from Ukrainian producer Shabo ahead of bottles from Bordeaux icons Château Haut-Brion and Château Margaux. So yes, there’s definitely something going on here.

What are Ukraine’s Ancient Wine Roots?

Photo Credit: Arsen Fedosenko

Winemaking likely arrived in what is now Ukraine even before the Greeks did. Archaeologists in Crimea have found Vitis vinifera seeds, the kind used for making wine, dating back to the 8th century BCE. (And in case you didn’t know: the grapes we drink and the grapes we eat are not the same species.)

By the 1st century BCE, wine was being made in what is now western Ukraine, and Roman poet Ovid name-checked wines from the Black Sea region. In the Middle Ages, winemaking flourished in Kyiv’s monasteries before expanding west toward Lviv and east into the steppes. Ukrainian Cossack leaders – hetmans – were known to enjoy a good bottle. Mazepa, a baroque-era hetman whose sabre is on display at the Tower of London this summer, had an enviable wine cellar. His successor, Kyrylo Rozumovsky, imported over 30,000 vine cuttings in an effort to establish a large-scale vineyard.

By the 19th century, Ukraine was very much part of Europe’s wine boom. Local wine cellars (then also a term for wine bars) were praised by the likes of Mark Twain and Honoré de Balzac. At the first Paris World Expo, Ukrainian wines won the Grand Prix and several gold medals.

Soviet Setbacks and a Winemaking Revival

Then came the Soviet regime. The 1930s Holodomor (Stalin’s man-made famine) devastated rural life and wiped out much of the viticultural landscape. The repression of experts followed, and then Gorbachev’s anti-alcohol campaign in the 1980s brought another blow: mass destruction of vineyards and near extinction of many indigenous grape varieties.

Things started to change after independence in 1991. Ukrainian winemakers began investing in quality production. A 2018 law legalising small-scale winemaking was a turning point, unleashing a wave of independent producers, wine bars, and festivals.

What Makes Ukrainian Wine Unique?

Photo Credit: Arsen Fedosenko

Today, Ukraine’s wine scene is rich and varied – with family estates, urban wineries, organic farms, and a thriving spirit of experimentation. Consultants from Burgundy and Bordeaux lend expertise. Growers are exploring amphora ageing, pét-nats, skin-contact whites, and frost-resistant PIWI varieties. Climate change has shifted vineyard zones northward, and Ukrainian wines are earning praise from critics like Jancis Robinson and Oz Clarke.

You’ll find familiar grapes like Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and less common varieties like Saperavi, Pinotage, and Albariño. Aligoté, the high-acid darling of Burgundy, known for its notes of lime and fennel, grows beautifully here. Indigenous grapes and local crossings include Telti-Kuruk, Sukholimansky White, and Odesa Black. Others, sadly, remain in Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014.

In Zakarpattia, western Ukraine, Hungarian and Austrian influences are noticeable, though the region has its own unmistakable voice. They make everything from herbal-infused wines to ice wines and luscious dessert bottles – an echo of the area’s rich tea and foraging culture.

The full-scale Russian invasion in 2022 was catastrophic. Many wineries and vineyards were shelled, looted, mined, or occupied. The historic Prince Trubetskoi winery (a Grand Prix winner in Paris in 1900) was destroyed. So was the Hostomel glass factory, leaving many producers without bottles. Many winemakers and wine professionals joined the army or focused on volunteer work to support Ukraine’s defence.

And yet, even during shelling, blackouts, and active combat, Ukrainian winemakers harvested and bottled the 2022 vintage. It’s become a symbol of resilience. Despite everything, Ukrainian wines are now exported to over 20 countries. They’re made under unimaginable conditions, but they are still being made.

This entire industry runs on passion, grit, and the unwavering determination to show the world what Ukrainian wine can do. And the world is taking notice. In 2024, six Masters of Wine from different countries gathered to blind-taste nearly 100 Ukrainian wines and choose the ones with the most potential and international appeal.

Their final verdict was a curated list of 24 wines that speak to Ukraine’s winemaking present and future - four of which we’ll highlight below.

So where should you start? Last Christmas, Wines of Ukraine launched a campaign called Just One Bottle, encouraging people to try just a single Ukrainian wine. The message still holds. Pick one. That might be all it takes to keep going.

Villa Tinta Sukholimansky White 2024

Top 12 Ukrainian Wines of 2024

You may not have heard much about Bessarabia, the southern Ukrainian region, nestled near Moldova, but your glass is about to change that. The family-run Villa Tinta winery sits on the shores of Lake Yalpuh, where vineyards soak up sun, sea breezes, and Danube air. The estate bottles under a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), meaning strict quality standards apply – and to make sure, they’ve got their own certified lab right on-site.

This wine is made from Sukholimansky White – a Ukrainian-born grape sometimes called Odesa White. It’s a 20th-century crossing of Chardonnay and the Moldovan variety Plavai, created by local viticulturalists. While it’s often used for skin-contact (aka orange) wines thanks to its generous body, here it’s all fresh, floral elegance.

The nose is pure summer: ripe pear, wildflowers, honey. The palate opens with grapefruit, white peach, a sprig of mint, and a delicate hint of sea air. Start solo, then experiment – it pairs beautifully with buffalo mozzarella bruschetta, delicate white fish, or even artichokes (no easy feat).

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £14.80 (Ukrainian Wine Company)

Beykush Artania Rosé 2022

This one comes with a backstory worthy of its own docuseries. Beykush Winery began when its founder set out to build a countryside summer house with a wine cellar and got unexpectedly distracted by the grapes instead. Fast forward a decade, and it's now one of Ukraine’s most daring and dynamic producers, winning international awards and earning praise for its unconventional and fearless style.

The vineyards perch on Cape Beykush, a high point above sea level flanked by water on three sides. The terroir is wild, sea-kissed and dramatic – and the wines reflect that energy. Despite being within striking distance of the frontlines, the team presses on, crafting wines that are impossible to replicate anywhere else.

Their rosé is made from Pinot Gris with a dash of Pinot Noir and aged on lees for five months. On the nose: raspberry, juicy watermelon, and wild herbs. On the palate: zingy gooseberry, redcurrants, and a salty sea note that lingers just long enough to make you want another sip.

Pair it with grilled seafood, goat’s cheese, tuna steak, or even roasted pork. It’s confident, characterful, and unapologetically moreish.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £18 (Ukrainian Wine Company)

Villa Tinta Odesa Black 2022

Top 24 Ukrainian Wines of 2024

Now for something bold. Odesa Black (aka Alibernet) was born in the 20th century at the Tairov Institute in Odesa – a hybrid of Cabernet Sauvignon and Alicante Bouschet. Originally used for blending, it’s now stepping into the spotlight on its own terms.

And in this solo from Villa Tinta, it absolutely delivers. Aged in bottle and poured deep purple-black (you'd better not spill this on your sofa), it opens with a wild mix of blackberries, aronia, fig, earthiness, and even beetroot and prunes. There’s something unmistakably Ukrainian in its character, like a nod to the country's UNESCO-listed national dish: borshch.

Yet another surprise is in the taste. Despite its power and depth, the texture is velvety, the alcohol restrained, and when lightly chilled (around 14°C), it’s more versatile than you’d think. Try it with duck and prunes, smoky grilled meats – or yes, even a hearty bowl of borshch.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £14.80 (Ukrainian Wine Company)

Beykush Telti-Kuruk 2024

Top 12 Ukrainian Wines of 2024

Meet Telti-Kuruk – a grape with serious survival instincts. It arrived in southern Ukraine some 500 years ago during Ottoman rule, made it through the phylloxera plague, and is now having a well-deserved revival. Its name means “fox tail” in Turkish, a nod to the grape’s long clusters and the coppery tinge of its ripening berries.

The bird on the label isn’t just for decoration; Beykush Winery sits on Europe’s largest bird sanctuary. During harvest, flocks often help themselves to the vineyard’s best grapes. The winemakers joke that whichever variety the birds love most is the one they'll have the least of. Only 900 bottles of this vintage were made.

The wine itself is mineral, herbal, warm, and quietly complex. Think white mulberry, quince, kiwi, and wildflowers, with a vivid, layered finish: sea salt, honey, and a delicate bitter note of apricot pits. It also ages like a dream; we’d love to meet this one again in five years. Pair it with spaghetti alle vongole or roast Basque chicken with rosemary.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £27 (Ukrainian Wine Company)

Beykush Lerici Al Mar Nero 2022

Timorasso, the grape from Piedmont, was nearly extinct by the 1980s until Walter Massa, a maverick winemaker and visionary, brought it back. Thanks to Massa and Beykush’s winemaking consultant, Bisso Atanassov, 1,000 Timorasso vines made it from Italy to Ukraine – the grape’s first European debut outside its homeland.

Tricky to grow, Timorasso demands special treatment. But Beykush likes a challenge. At a 2023 tasting in Portofino, wine experts from across Europe singled out Beykush’s Timorasso - some even named Lerici their favourite of the event.

Now grown near the Black Sea, Timorasso reveals a new side of itself. This vintage – winner of a 2025 Decanter Bronze – is spice-laced and generous. On the nose: dried flowers, honey, and some warm baking spices. On the palate: juicy pears and golden plums, with a silky, rounded finish where vanilla and caramel sneak in (courtesy of ageing on lees in used French oak). Definitely age-worthy, it’s drawing comparisons to Chablis and Riesling.

Serve with grilled fish, creamy risotto, or anything that says "dinner with intention."

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £39 (Ukrainian Wine Company)

Kolonist Bisser Brut

Top 12 Ukrainian Wines of 2024

Founded in the early 2000s by Ivan Plachkov – a descendant of Bulgarian settlers – Kolonist Winery is nestled in the Bessarabia region. This family estate has long focused on quality, and even wine legend Oz Clarke called their work a sign that this region would soon earn its rightful spot on the global wine map.

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion, the Plachkov family has hosted evacuees from occupied areas, and one of the winery’s co-owners now serves in Ukraine’s Armed Forces. Through it all, they’ve continued making standout wines – including red blends that can hold their own next to Bordeaux’s best.

Their vineyards share a latitude with Bordeaux and Piedmont, and thanks to south-facing slopes and sunlight bouncing off Lake Yalpuh, the grapes here achieve full, balanced ripeness.

Their Bisser Brut is made from Chardonnay using the traditional method (yes, the same process as Champagne) and aged on lees for three years. It’s clean and elegant, with aromas of pancakes and lemon, white flowers, and hazelnuts. On the palate, you’ll find crisp green apple, tangerine, and a creamy texture with a rich, lingering finish.

Pair with local-style lightly salted Dunaika herring if you can find it. Otherwise, go for smoked salmon or buttery toast with caviar.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £35 (Cellar Door Wines)

Want to Learn More About Ukrainian Wine History?

Before we wrap: if you’re curious about the deeper story behind Ukrainian wine and want to bust a few Soviet-era myths along the way, this book is essential reading: 29 Centuries: Rediscovered History of Wine in Ukraine by Anna Eugenia Yanchenko.

Written by a graduate in cultural studies, sommelier, and wine educator, 29 Centuries digs through 800 historical sources to uncover Ukraine’s true winemaking past – the one erased for decades by Soviet propaganda. "We used to think there was a void in our history where wine culture should be,” she says. “But it wasn’t void. It was oblivion.”

The result is a deeply researched, engaging read with original illustrations (some in graphic novel style) and commentary from historical figures including Homer, Pliny the Elder, and Mark Twain. The book won a 2024 award from the International Organisation of Vine and Wine and is now available in Ukrainian and English.

Ukrainian wines tell a story of place, passion, and resilience. And if this tasting has you thinking about what other bottles are worth discovering, take a look at our Champagne picks here – whether you're after the classic, the quirky, or something that simply feels like a celebration.

Fizz with Flair: What Sets Champagne Apart from the Rest?

Depending on who’s counting (and how patient they are), a single glass of Champagne contains somewhere between two and 11 million bubbles. Impressive, sure - but the magic of Champagne isn’t just in the fizz. It’s in everything behind it.

First things first: Champagne is a legally protected name. Only sparkling wines made in the Champagne region of France (northeast of Paris) can use it. Anything else is just bubbly.

Yes, a few American producers still label their wines “Champagne,” thanks to a loophole in historical trade agreements. But let’s be honest: when we say champagne, we mean actual Champagne.

Why is Champagne considered to be so special?

It’s all about terroir - that untranslatable French word that wraps up climate, soil, geography and a little bit of magic. Champagne’s cool temperatures and chalky soils are perfect for growing three key grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. These are blended in varying proportions to create the styles we know and love.

Then there’s the method. Champagne is made using the traditional method (méthode champenoise, if you’re feeling fancy), where the second fermentation - the one that makes the bubbles - happens inside the bottle. It’s time-consuming, expensive and labour-intensive. But the payoff is finer bubbles, greater complexity and that creamy, brioche-like texture you just can’t fake.

What made Champagne so famous?

No other wine is so wrapped up in mystery, glamour and mythology. Queen Victoria favoured Perrier-Jouët, Churchill swore by Pol Roger, and James Bond … he’s a Bollinger man.

As for Dom Pérignon - the monk who supposedly invented Champagne and shouted “I’m drinking the stars!” - it’s a lovely tale, but total fiction. Sparkling wine existed well before Dom’s time. The method was described in 1662 by English scientist Christopher Merrett - and those sturdy glass bottles that keep the fizz from bursting out? Also, English. You're welcome, Champagne.

Dom Pérignon, for his part, actually tried to remove bubbles from wine. But he did help refine the process, laying the groundwork for what would become the world’s most iconic sparkling wine.

Which champagne should I choose?

Well, there are different styles for different occasions and moods. Some of us queue for Beyoncé tickets, others listen to Brahms in their car - and, sometimes, the same person does both. Champagne styles work the same way: each has its fans, but you don’t have to pick just one. Let’s pop the cork on five bottles - and two English curveballs - each with its own story.

Veuve Monsigny No.3 Champagne Brut

Think of Non-Vintage Champagne as a chart-topper: it’s everywhere, accessible, and hard not to love. About 80% of Champagne is non-vintage, blending wines from different years to keep the style consistent.

But don’t dismiss it. NV Champagne is the house’s calling card. Recreating the same profile year after year - no matter the harvest - is like Beyoncé still being Beyoncé, whether she’s doing country or punk rock.

This £15 Aldi-exclusive bottle is proof that good NV doesn’t need to cost a fortune. Made by Philizot et Fils, it’s been racking up medals since 2010 and won gold at the 2025 World Champagne Awards.

Expect aromas of apple turnover and lemon shortbread, with bright citrus, minerality, fine bubbles and a warm finish. It’s not about luxury; it’s about joy. Pair with manzanilla olives, a good hot dog or crispy fried chicken.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £15.49 - Aldi

Canard-Duchêne Vintage 2018 Champagne

Vintage Champagne is a snapshot of a single, standout year. Aged for a minimum of three years (often more), it delivers richness, depth and complexity. Drink now - or let it evolve in the cellar.

2018 is already being hailed as “exceptional.” A rocky spring gave way to a golden early summer, with beautifully ripe grapes and soft acidity.

This bottle comes from Premier and Grand Cru vineyards and spent over six years on lees in Canard-Duchêne’s chalk cellars.

With aromas of juicy peach, honeysuckle and melon, on the palate, it’s pure energy - lemon peel, clotted cream, wild raspberries, and a creamy texture. The nutty, lingering finish is made for Comté cheese. A love story in a glass, quite literally - this house was founded in 1868 after a barrel-maker fell for a winemaker’s daughter. Romantic and delicious.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £35 Mix Six (38 per bottle) - Majestic

Collery Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Champagne

Blanc de Blancs means 100% Chardonnay. In blends, it brings brightness. Solo, it’s zesty, refined, and full of promise. This one? Very much worth watching.

Collery picked up its first gold medal in 1904, and it’s barely stopped since. The secret is in a perfect combo of terroir, grapes from Grand Cru vineyards, and the careful hand of cellar master Julien Lefevre.

Five years on the lees brings depth and award-winning finesse. Expect nectarine, citrus peel and spring flowers, with hints of toasted hazelnut. The palate offers grapefruit, pear and a sea-breeze salinity. Excellent with scallops, oysters, or young Camembert.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £33 Mix Six (60 per bottle)- Majestic

Pommery 'Brut Rosé Royal’ Champagne

Rosé Champagne looks pretty, but it’s also serious food wine, structured and often pricier. Why? It takes more effort to make. Champagne rosé is often created by blending a little red wine into the base white, which demands care and precision.

Madame Louise Pommery wasn’t just the “Lady of the Roses.” She also helped steer Champagne towards a drier, Brut style, winning over British drinkers in the 19th century.

Her legacy lives on in this elegant blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Think Sunday garden party: warm pancakes, strawberry jam, roses in bloom. It’s fresh, balanced and effortlessly stylish.

Perfect with duck in orange sauce, or spring lamb. Regal, romantic and quietly powerful.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £40- Waitrose

Piper Heidsieck Essentiel Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut Champagne

Blanc de Noirs means white Champagne from black grapes, usually Pinot Noir and Meunier. Expect richness, body and bold berry notes.

Marilyn Monroe once said she woke up with a glass of Piper-Heidsieck. And honestly, we get it. This wine has presence. This version won a trophy and gold medal at the 2025 International Wine Challenge. It’s Extra Brut (less sugar), but the dryness is sleek and invigorating.

Made from 80% Pinot Noir and 20% Meunier, aged for three years on lees. It opens with grilled peach, raspberry and warm baguette aromas. On the palate: bright citrus, honeyed depth, and a nutty finish. Pair with foie gras or aged cheese - or tuck it away. With the right care, it’ll age gracefully for years.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £63.50 - The Whisky Exchange

Is Champagne still untouchable?

For centuries, yes. But now, English sparkling wine is snapping at its heels, winning blind tastings and major awards.

Why? Warmer summers mean better-ripened grapes. Southern England’s chalky soils are nearly identical to those in Champagne. And English winemakers have upped their game massively.

So, if you’re looking for a Champagne alternative, you might only need to look across the Channel, or the next county over.

Sugrue, The Trouble With Dreams 2020, South Downs

The chalk ridge of the South Downs is England’s answer to Champagne - and Dermot Sugrue is one of its pioneers. He helped put Nyetimber and Wiston on the map, but now he and Ana Sugrue are pouring that knowledge into their own label.

Their 2009 magnum won Best Sparkling in Magnum at the 2025 Decanter World Wine Awards. That one is sold out (no surprise). But you can still grab the 2020 - only 7,500 bottles made.

A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, this bottle is all English charm: sea breeze, sun-warmed chalk, orchard fruit and poise. Age-worthy until at least 2035. A dream with altitude.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £49- Sugrue South Downs

Chapel Down Rosé Sparkling

Each year, Decanter names just 50 wines as Best in Show - their highest honour. In 2024, only one English wine made the cut: this ethereal, traditional-method rosé from Kent. That’s three Best in Show wins now for Chapel Down, and a big red pin on the global wine map for England.

It’s an unusual blend: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Meunier - and a twist of Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir Précoce (an early-ripening, floral version of Pinot Noir).

The result is light, elegant, and completely summery, with strawberry, redcurrant and peony petal notes. It’s made for summer pudding, picnics or just a patch of sunshine.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £32 Mix Six (34 per bottle)- Majestic

So, there you have it. Five standout Champagnes worth popping. Intrigued by those English sparkling curveballs? Discover more sip-worthy bottles here.

Raising a Glass to Love: Barefoot’s Fabulous 35+ Years Supporting the LGBTQ+ Community

Let’s start with the obvious: Barefoot isn’t just one of the most-loved names in wine, it’s a symbol of fun, freedom, and a producer of an incredible range of bottles to suit every taste bud. But there’s more than just wine bubbling under the surface: since 1988, Barefoot has proudly stood shoulder to shoulder with the LGBT+ community, championing equality and celebrating love in every form. That’s more than three decades of pairing great times with an even greater purpose - and we’re absolutely here for it.

How Did Barefoot Get Started in Supporting the LGBT Community?

Rewind to 1988, and Barefoot’s story of allyship started with a simple yet powerful gesture: supporting a fundraiser for the Golden Gate Business Association in San Francisco, the world’s first LGBT+ chamber of commerce. That night wasn’t just about raising money - it planted the seed for what became a lifelong commitment to showing up, speaking out, and lifting every voice in the rainbow community. Since then, Barefoot has made inclusivity part of its DNA, never shying away from putting love front and centre.

Why Does Barefoot Support the LGBTQ+ Community?

Unlike other brands who have the tendency to use Pride as a seasonal marketing moment, for Barefoot, supporting the LGBT+ community is about creating a world where everyone can show up exactly as they are, without fear or judgement. Life’s simply more fabulous when everyone feels welcome. Whether it’s your identity or your favourite grape, they believe every flavour deserves its place at the table. And let’s be honest: the world’s a better place when we can all come together, kick off our shoes, and get a little Barefoot ;)

What Has Barefoot Done Over the Years That Led to This Partnership?

Year after year Barefoot has made a splash supporting LGBTQ+ communities. From partnering with InterPride in 2005 to backing same-sex marriage by donating to every LGBT+ centre in California in 2008, their support has been unwavering. They hit a perfect score on the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index in 2010 - and haven’t missed a beat since! They sponsored World Pride in Toronto, and more recently teamed up with Free Mom Hugs and the National Centre for Transgender Equality. One standout moment? Their 2022 partnership with LGBT Foundation’s Rainbow Buddies project, which created over 1,000 supportive conversations to tackle post-pandemic loneliness in the LGBTQ+ community. Now that’s something worth toasting.

What is Barefoot Doing in 2025 to Support the LGBTQ+ Community?

This year, Barefoot is stepping up as the lead sponsor of LGBT Foundation’s glittering 50th anniversary celebrations - a golden milestone for a charity that’s been the UK’s lifeline for LGBTQ+ health and wellbeing since 1975. Key events have included everything from a Rainbow Arts Trail bursting with queer creativity to showstopping entries in Golden Parades at Pride events, a landmark exhibition at Manchester Central Library, and a partnership with Google Arts & Culture to amplify queer stories across the globe. It’s all about turning up the volume on LGBTQ+ voices and celebrating 50 years of life-saving work in spectacular style.

Our Toast to Barefoot: 4 Fabulous Wines to Celebrate Love

Feeling inspired? So are we - and there’s no better way to raise a glass than with these four standout Barefoot wines. Pick your favourite and let the fun begin:

For the White Wine Lover: Barefoot Pinot Grigio


Fresh and crisp, Barefoot’s Pinot Grigio brims with citrus zest, green apple and subtle floral notes. It’s a natural match for light seafood dishes, creamy pasta, or a simple antipasti spread. Perfect for alfresco dining and picnics in the park, it’s a bottle that begs for sunny afternoons and lots of laughter your best mates.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: COOP £7.50

For the Rosé Wine Lover: Barefoot Pink Moscato

Sweet, playful, and bursting with ripe strawberries and juicy raspberries, Barefoot Pink Moscato is the ultimate partner for creamy desserts or a cheeky brunch with mates. Take it to a beach picnic, Pride celebrations, or any moment under the sun. Cheers!
Size: 750ml
ABV: 9%
Find here: Waitrose £8

For the Red Wine Lover: Barefoot Merlot

Smooth, velvety and oh-so-inviting, Barefoot’s Merlot is packed with juicy blackberry, plum and a whisper of chocolate on the finish. It’s the kind of red that feels just as at home alongside a hearty lasagne as it does with a cheeseboard by the fire. When the nights get cooler, this red will bring warmth to any gathering.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: Tesco £7.50 (Currently reduced from £8.50)

For the Sparkling Wine Lover: Barefoot Bubbly Pink Moscato

A celebration in a bottle, Barefoot Bubbly Pink Moscato is everything you want in a sparkling wine: vibrant, textured, and bursting with red berry notes. Toast engagements, birthdays, or Tuesdays that feel like Fridays - it’s perfect whenever you need a little sparkle to elevate the everyday.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 8%
Find here: Tesco £7 (currently reduced from £8.25)

Barefoot isn’t just talking the talk - it’s dancing the dance, every day of the year. By championing inclusivity and celebrating individuality, Barefoot makes wine accessible, joyful, and free of pretension, just as it should be. And as they step into 2025 and beyond, Barefoot’s mission is clear: to keep raising glasses, amplifying underrepresented voices, and making the world a more welcoming, colourful place. One Barefoot step at a time.

Feeling thirsty for more wine content? Click here!

Lambrusco is Back (and It’s Not What You Remember)

When you think of Italian sparkling wines, your first thought might be prosecco, and who can blame you! It’s a fun, flirty, delicious drink that lends itself to many spritzes and cocktails. But there’s another Italian sparkling wine making a triumphant comeback. Say ciao again to Lambrusco! 

Available in dry (secco), off dry (amabile/semisecco) and sweet (dolce) styles, Lambrusco is the sparkling wine that can do it all. ‘Lambrusco’ - the name referring to both the grape varieties used and the style of wine itself - is one of the oldest wines made in northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region. Yes, the same region that is famous for its Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and balsamic vinegar!

During the wine boom of the late 1970s and 1980s, this sparkling red wine flooded the international market, helped by catchy marketing like this playful Riunite commercial, featuring a frolicking couple in idyllic Italian settings. However, unlike the dryer styles sipped in Italy, these exported Lambruscos were incredibly sweet, and the focus on impulse for profit over product, and volume over quality, saw this incredible style of wine relegated to a punchline.

Thankfully, that’s changing.

Today, more and more Italian winemakers are taking a stand and showcasing just how elegant and nuanced Lambrusco can be. These days, there are over 60 different varieties of Lambrusco grapes, and with so many options, those curious to explore are spoilt for choice! Here are some of the bottles worth uncorking.

Quercioli Lambrusco Reggiano DOC Secco

When it comes to Lambrusco, Medici Ermete is a huge player, creating varied and delicious iterations of this classic wine. For 134 years, generations of the Medici family have been closely shepherding Lambrusco wine into the 21st century. This is a dry, ruby red wine that makes a statement the moment it’s poured into your glass. Deep red fruit flavours complement a balanced palate, with soft floral notes on the nose. It’s the perfect drink for summer BBQs or hearty pasta dishes like a beef ragu - and it won’t break the bank.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find Here: £7.80 (usually 9.27)

Quercioli Lambrusco Reggiano DOC Dolce Medici Ermete

Prefer something on the sweeter side? The “red label” from Medici Ermete is for you. Rich dark cherries, rhubarb and juicy red fruits come together to create decadence in a glass without slipping into the overly sweet Lambruscos of the past. An absolutely stunning rich garnet in the glass, this wine is easy to pair with food or enjoy leisurely on its own, on either side of a meal. Innovation married with deep traditional roots, this is a wonderful choice for those looking for something to satisfy their sweet tooth.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 8.5%
Find Here: £7.72 (usually 8.70)

Cantina di Soliera Lambrusco di Sorbara Secco

Cantina di Soliera is a cooperative winery that champions Lambrusco as its hero wine, believing it embodies the authentic spirit of the region - a celebration of both tradition and the people. This wine is a deep grapefruit pink and has aromas of perfectly ripe raspberries and spring rhubarb, while its higher acidity balances the dry, fruit-forward character beautifully. The finish of this wine is bright with a slight grip, making it a versatile food wine that pairs well with fish dishes, local regional fare, or even sushi.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find Here: £11.00                                             

Quercioli Lambrusco Sorbara DOC Secco

The third iteration of Quercioli on this list will have you thinking … pink! This particular Lambrusco is aged in stainless steel tanks, so the fresh and fruit-forward nature of the wine shines with ease and maintains its delicate floral aromas. This is an excellent option for those who love a lighter, drier rosé with some added fizz for fun. Fabulous on its own, it also complements a spicy coconut curry, pakora or delicate fish dish with ease.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find Here: £12.00 // $9.00 

Nivola Lambrusco

Cleto Chiarli is the oldest producer of wines from the Emilia-Romagna region, having started production back in 1860, and their expertise shines with this special bottle. Made from 100% Grasparossa Lambrusco grapes, when freshly poured into a glass, the Niviola is a deep currant red, complemented by a violet mousse. Its dry and gentle fizz is expertly balanced with notes of cranberry and ripe red fruits, forming a fuller and gently grippy glass. It would be a perfect companion to a roast dinner, cured meats or anything with balsamic vinegar. Elegant, classic and delicate.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 10.5%
Find Here: £13 

La Favorita Reggiano Lambrusco

Nominative determinism? Perhaps! Another iteration from the highly influential and respected Medici Ermete, who has been a champion in rehabilitating Lambrusco’s image. With sights set on uncompromising excellence, La Favorita reflects these efforts. This Lambrusco is plump, full and bursting to the brim with black currant, ripe raspberry, red fruits and just a whisper of violets. Harmonious, crisp and utterly delicious, it pairs wonderfully with Bolognese, red meat dishes or delicious Parma ham.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find Here: £14.50

Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC Phermento

For lovers of pet nats (wines where the fermentation has happened in the bottle), Phermento provides a thrilling twist on Lambrusco. A lush pink in the bottle, when poured it opens with aromas of tart wild strawberries, just ripe raspberries, sherbert and a delicate funkiness typical of the style. High in acid with a generous sparkly fizz, this Lambrusco is the perfect aperitif to share with friends on a hot summer day.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find Here: £16.45

"Puro!" Lambrusco Emilia IGP

Vitivinicola Fangareggi was founded in 2005, but four generations have worked together to create wines that honour tradition and the land while embracing the future. Harvested by hand to ensure excellence and transformed into sparkling wine by undergoing a second fermentation in a pressurised tank (a.k.a. the Charmat method used to make Prosecco), Puro! is fresh and fruit forward. Made using 100% Lambrusco Salamino grapes, it delivers unwavering black cherry and plum notes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 10%
Find Here: £23.95

Bergianti San Vincent Frizzante

Gianluca Bergianti has been producing biodynamic wines from the start. This 100% Sorbara Lambrusco is a brilliant example of those efforts. This wine starts out flirty and light-hearted with raspberries, orange and rhubarb before revealing herby notes - a beautiful summer garden party in a glass. Dry and textured, this is a true ‘treat yourself’ wine, something for a celebration or a special occasion.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find Here: £20.30

Compelling and a bit different, Lambrusco is the perfect chilled red for your summer. This style of wine allows you to have the best of both worlds: a sophisticated structure paired with gentle bubbles. Easy drinking and best shared with good company, Lambrusco is back - and it’s better than ever.

If you’re interested in exploring the dynamic and vast world of sparkling reds, see more here.

9 Must-Try English Wines for Every Occasion

Let’s make something clear: English wine is having a moment. Long gone are the days of politely saying “oh, it’s actually not bad!” - today’s bottles are bold, brilliant, and absolutely worthy of international attention.

Yes, we all know the flipside: English wine isn’t always cheap. With a young industry and relatively small yields, prices can feel a bit punchy - and that can make trying something new a bit of a gamble.

But here’s the good news: that’s changing. More and more producers are offering wines that are both excellent and affordable. We’ve rounded up nine bottles from across the country - from the chalky soils of the south to gold-medal winners in the north - that prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to drink well. Most of them come in under £20, and not one breaks the £40 mark. So whether you’re after something crisp, creamy, sparkling or still, there’s plenty to get excited about - whatever your mood, budget, or dinner plans.

Three Choirs Stonebrook 2022/23 (Gloucestershire)

Back in 1973, Alan McKechnie decided his farm in Gloucestershire - tucked between hills and sheltered from the worst of the weather - might be just the place for growing vines. That’s how Three Choirs Vineyard got started, named after one of the UK’s oldest choral music festivals. 

Since then, their wines have racked up awards, travelled the world, and even made it into British Airways First Class. But these days, more and more bottles are staying right here at home, with growing demand from UK wine lovers. 

The team at Three Choirs say it’s the sandy soil that gives their wines a lovely fruit-forward character - and it definitely comes through in Stone Brook. It’s a blend of Siegerrebe and Solaris (grapes that love cooler climates), and it smells like a summer garden in full swing… with a tropical twist. Think lychee, pineapple, peach - surprising, but somehow it works.

Just when you’re floating off to warmer places, a zing of grapefruit, a hit of fresh-cut grass and a pinch of white pepper bring everything back into balance.

Try it with a mild curry or a goat’s cheese salad. It’s a great reminder that English wine isn’t just having a moment - it’s here to stay.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £11.00 Mix Six (£12.50 per bottle) - Majestic

Chapel Down Bacchus 2023 (Kent)

If Bacchus, the Roman god of wine had Instagram, this one would definitely be on his grid. Once a bit of an underdog, the Bacchus grape has been making waves in English vineyards lately - soaking up more sunshine (thanks, climate change?) and growing in confidence.

Chapel Down’s Classic Bacchus brings together fruit grown in Kent, Essex and East Sussex - three regions with their own microclimates and terroirs. The soils here range from chalk to clay, which helps give the wine its crisp texture and vibrant aromatics.

It’s also a more sustainable choice. Bacchus ripens relatively early, reducing the need for energy-intensive vineyard interventions. Many producers (including Chapel Down) are now moving toward lower-impact farming and greener bottling practices. 

In the glass, it’s a pale straw colour. On the nose: gooseberry, elderflower and a hint of nettle. Take a sip and you’ll find crisp green apple, a twist of lemon zest, and a slice of sun-warmed melon. Bright, clean and expressive - a snapshot of the English countryside in late spring.

The finish is fresh, zippy, and lingers like a long summer afternoon.

Pro tip: take it out of the fridge 15–20 minutes before pouring. Pairs beautifully with seasonal veg, herby fish dishes, or anything fresh from the farmers’ market.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £12.50 - Waitrose

Simpsons Estate Pinot Noir Rosé 2023 (Kent)

About twenty years ago, Charles and Ruth Simpson were happily making wine in the sunny south of France - but then came a change in the wind (or maybe just the English weather calling), and they decided to become part of the English wine revolution. 

Their estate is in one of Kent’s designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The winery is nestled between two vineyards, both within walking distance, which means the grapes get the VIP treatment from vine to vat.

This is the more wallet-friendly rosé from the same winemakers whose Railway Hill Rosé was crowned Best Still Rosé at the 2024 WineGB Awards. Made from 100% Pinot Noir, this rosé is a bright, expressive showcase of local terroir. It kicks off with fresh aromas of strawberries and pink grapefruit, then opens up into juicy watermelon, peaches, and tart cranberries sprinkled with a hint of savoury herbs.

The colour alone is calling out for a plate of salmon - grilled or smoked, your choice. That said, it’d pair just as nicely with roast chicken or a herby couscous salad.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £12.50 -  Waitrose

Silverhand Estate Sparkling Brut (Kent)

For a while now, English sparkling wines have been making headlines for beating Champagne in blind tastings - but they haven’t always been easy on the wallet. That’s what makes Silverhand Estate Sparkling Brut stand out: it offers impressive quality at a price that won’t make you wince.

Based in Kent, Silverhand is the UK’s largest single-estate organic vineyard and also the first in the country to achieve a carbon-negative status. Rare-breed sheep roam freely between the vines, helping fertilise the land and break up the soil naturally. The estate sits on the same chalky, flinty soils as Champagne’s Côte des Blancs - ideal for growing the classic sparkling varieties. 

This bottle blends the traditional Champagne grapes - Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. It’s made using the Charmat method (just like Prosecco), keeping the price reasonable without compromising on flavour.

On the nose, there’s citrus, pear and honeysuckle with a soft creamy touch. It’s not bone-dry, but has lovely refreshing acidity. Think pear tart with lemon zest and juicy white peaches on the palate. A perfect partner for a seaside picnic - preferably with fish and chips.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £13.00 Mix Six (£16.00 per bottle) - Majestic

Stopham Estate Pinot Gris 2023 (West Sussex)

What does Formula 1 have in common with English Pinot Gris? Quite a lot, actually, if you ask Simon Woodhead. Before turning his talents to winemaking in 2007, Simon designed parts for race cars. Now, he’s steering things in a slightly more bucolic direction, crafting wines in the rolling hills of West Sussex with a medieval church watching over the vineyards.

At Stopham Estate, sustainability is built into everything they do. The team avoid over-cultivating the soils, never spray herbicides, and let wild grasses flourish between the vines.

Their Pinot Gris is a fantastic snapshot of how English still wines are evolving, winning multiple awards over the years - including a Bronze at the 2024 Independent English Wine Awards. Once crisp and bracing, it’s now blossomed into something with more complexity and elegance. You’ll find floral aromas wrapped around tropical fruit, ripe melon, and a gentle hint of ginger spice. You could even cellar it for a couple of years, but it’s already drinking beautifully.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.3%
Find here: £18.00 Mix Six (£21.00 per bottle) Majestic

Dunesforde Pinot Gris 2022 (Yorkshire)

Who says good wine only comes from the south? Let’s head up north to the Yorkshire Vale to meet a wine that’s been turning heads - and winning trophies. Dunesforde’s 2022 Pinot Gris scooped Gold and the Best Single Varietal White Wine Trophy at the 2024 WineGB Awards. Not bad for a family-run estate that only released its first wines in 2019.

The Townsend family is on a mission to prove cool-climate wines can be exceptional -  and the long, warm summer of 2022 gave them just the opportunity. Alongside their sparkling wines, they crafted this still Pinot Gris, and the results are delicious: a vibrant, textured wine that’s as moreish as it is sophisticated.

Imagine ripe pears and apricots drizzled with honey, a flicker of citrus peel, and a mouthfeel that’s silky yet bright. Serve it chilled, but not straight from the fridge - let those delicate aromatics shine. It’s a dream with chicken tikka masala, pad Thai, or a wedge of Manchego cheese.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £25 - Dunesdorde

Lyme Bay Winery Chardonnay 2022 (Devon)

Lyme Bay is definitely one to watch. Just a few weeks ago, this Devon-based winery did what no other English producer had managed before: it scooped National Trophies for both Best English Red and Best English White at the 2025 International Wine Challenge. Not bad for a team tucked away in the picturesque Axe Valley, a stone’s throw from the Jurassic Coast.

They’ve been at it for over 30 years, now sourcing top-quality grapes from the best soils and microclimates across the country. This Chardonnay, the younger sibling of their award-winning white, is made from fruit picked in early October from four vineyards in Essex, including Crouch Valley, which winemaker consultant Clem Yates MW calls “the best place in the UK for still wines right now.”

“We’re not chasing Burgundy - we’re chasing excellence,” Clem says. And this wine is heading in that direction: rich, creamy, and structured enough to age for a good few years. Expect grilled peach with a squeeze of lemon, orange marmalade, and a little toasted almond on the finish. Lees ageing and gentle oak give it body without heaviness, and a bright acidity keeps everything in balance. A top pick for pairing with creamy pasta, roast white fish, or vegetable risotto.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £24.99 Lyme Bay

Balfour Luke’s Pinot Noir 2023 (Kent)

There was a time when “English wine” basically meant “English sparkling.” But still wines are gaining ground - and when it comes to reds, Pinot Noir is leading the charge. Tricky, temperamental, and totally irresistible to winemakers, it’s the grape so many want to master. But only a few succeed.

The team at Balfour are veterans of the English wine game. They work with Burgundian clones - in other words, the good stuff. Grown on clay soils, this Pinot channels the light, silky character of cool-climate New World styles, but it’s developed a personality all its own.

The nose is lively with red cherry, raspberry and wildflowers. On the palate, you’ll find deeper forest berries and a whisper of woodland after rain. A light touch of oak (around 8%) brings subtle structure and a touch of peppery spice. Winemaker Fergus Elias suggests pairing it with barbecued lamb rubbed in Moroccan spices, moussaka, or roasted aubergine. It’s also a dream with a confit duck.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £30 - Balfour Winery

Leonardslee Vintage Brut Rosé 2021 (Sussex)

Each year, a barn swallow makes the journey from Sussex to Africa and back again. No wonder it’s a fitting emblem for Leonardslee, the UK’s first golf & wine estate, founded by a family with deep South African winemaking roots.

The estate brought in South African expertise too: winemaker Johann Fourie and viticulturist Barry Anderson now lead the charge in the vineyard. The focus here is firmly on sustainability - even the on-site restaurant has earned a Michelin Green Star.

This 2021 vintage rosé brut, a medal winner at the 2024 WineGB Awards, adds a South African twist to the classic blend too: 10% Pinotage, grown right here in English soil. Grapes are handpicked at dawn and whole-bunch pressed, with the wine spending 30 months on lees.

The result? A sparkling rosé that evokes a spring orchard in full bloom, with raspberry, cherry, and a faint whiff of sea salt over rose-flavoured Turkish delight. Pair it with ripe strawberries and soft cheeses like Brie or Robiola. Fewer than 7,000 bottles were made - so if you see one, grab it while you can.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £38 - Leonardslee

Right now is the perfect time to get tasting. Plan a trip to a local vineyard (there are more than you think), explore a new bottle or two, and raise a glass to the brilliant producers shaping the future of English wine. With every harvest, it gets more exciting - and the best bit? This is just the beginning.

For more wine suggestions, head over to our dedicated wine page here.

Sunny Hodge: The Cynic's Guide to Wine

Photo Credit: Daniel Ogulewicz

We sat down with Sunny Hodge, founder and owner of multi-award winning bars Diogenes the Dog and Aspen and Meursault, DRINKLUSIVE mentor, and now author of The Cynic’s Guide to Wine, to learn more about his brand-new book.

What first got you into wine, and why 'The Cynic's Guide to Wine'?

I've been in hospitality for my entire professional life. Right around the time that I wanted to open my own spot - now Diogenes the Dog in Elephant & Castle - I was pretty confident with all things restaurant, except wine! It made no sense to me; and seemed like more storytelling over substance. In previous places I'd managed we could all sell the stuff, bottles sold for £4000 a pop, and it always seemed like we were regurgitating lines we'd learnt to sell the wines, but guests lapped it up.

Back then, it never made any technical sense, even after studying wine through traditional routes, so I decided to take the leap and open a wine bar whose concept was based around helping guests understand how wine works.

Being 'Cynical' in the truest sense of the word is about questioning the status Quo. This book in true Diogenes the Dog (the founder of Cynicism) style; questions our existing beliefs on how wine works, and utilises science to forge a path forwards.

Science isn't always a fun read, who is this book meant for?

I can vouch for that, I studied Mechanical Engineering at University, and boy, I don’t miss any of it.

The Cynic's Guide to Wine is a science of wine book aimed at foodies upwards. The science is broken down at each step along the way, tied in with some of my real life experiences in wine and life, and made applicable to utilise for wine and food decision making. It's the type of read that just makes sense, and similar to Chris van Tulleken’s book, Ultra Processed People - once you read it, you can't unread it!

There's also a lot of new scientific insights along the way, plus explanations of simple concepts that people take for granted in wine - like why do yeasts do what they do? Because of all the new info, it has a huge benefit for even the most expert of wine enthusiasts as well as novice wine lovers. 

Background Photo Credit: Daniel Ogulewicz

There's a lot of debunking of common wine myths in the book, how do readers know that your explanation is accurate?

In the spirit of Cynicism, what a brilliant question!

For so long in wine we've just listened to experts and assumed that what they are saying is correct. Wine is a huge topic, we have to trust those in charge right?

Well, with The Cynic's Guide to Wine I encourage you to question, the entire book is referenced to academic studies and research, it's all rooted in science and none of it my opinion. I ask questions along the way, and encourage readers to do the same. This book serves as a solid building block to learn and develop further into wine and food - backed by the latest academic studies across a range of different fields from soil science, microbiology, chemistry to neuroscience.

What sort of things does the book debunk?

Soil is a huge one which the book actually kicks off with. For so long we've marketed and spoken about wine and soil types and drawn up crude correlations to why wines taste the way that they do. Soils like clay and limestone are brandished on wine bottles, but what difference does this make? And how does this affect our wine? The book gets into the nitty gritty of this and reveals what in soil makes a difference, and what doesn't.

I'd also say that the final chapter is hugely revealing, it's all about how we perceive flavour neurologically and how much is subjective vs genetic bias. Hugely geeky but interesting stuff which changes the way we think about food and drink entirely. 

What's next?

The two bars are somewhat of a handful as is. I also do a fair bit of wine judging throughout the year which I enjoy hugely, so I've got a lot on my plate to keep me busy enough.

That said, I’m developing an online course in wine science, aptly named the 'Science of Wine Course'. I'd like to make it a qualification which could take a while to get approved. It may take a year or two to get there, but I will be posting updates on my socials.

You can pick up your very own copy of The Cynic’s Guide to Wine from the retailers below:

Amazon
Waterstones
Academie du Vin

The Cynic’s Guide to Wine book signing will take place at The Book Elephant in Elephant and Castle on April 5th between 2pm and 6pm!

B58 - English Fine Wine Whatever the Vintage

There has been an issue with a lot of English wine for a while now. Not with the sparkling wines, which overall have been of excellent quality for a long time, but with still wine. There are some producers that make quite good still wine in the UK, but it is expensive, and there is a lot of competition at the price range English still wine asks for. The main reason for the price is that the cost of production in England is very high, but the reason for the quality is a simple one, the climate. Unlike sparkling wine, which can use multi vintages, still wine is a vintage product, and our vintages vary greatly in England. There are purists out there, those who accept these vintage variations, who enjoy the terroir and climate aspects of wine and are willing to pay for it. However, the great majority of wine drinkers simply want a good wine at a reasonable price and how that wine is produced is of lesser importance.

This brings me onto a new winery in the New Forest, not that the location really matters.

Beaulieu 58 is a winery which is growing their vines in polytunnels. Their main business is a fruit farm, and they are very successful at growing fruit, giving us strawberries earlier in the season and asparagus before any of the other English growers. This expertise in bringing plants to ripeness more quickly benefits vines in England hugely.

The use of polytunnels also helps with two other aspects of growing vines in England. Mildew and the use of chemicals. They use their chemical sprayer, without chemicals, to simply aerate the polytunnel, moving the air around to prevent mildew. The lack of chemicals is facilitated by the tunnel and the material in which the vines are grown. Coir, the husks of coconuts are used for the first 80cm of depth. There is no need to use chemicals to guard against disease. They simply just irrigate, and use nutrients. The only reason they can’t call their wines organic is because coconut palms are not considered organic and therefore the coir used is not classified as organic.

There is a further benefit to growing the vines in a polytunnel in this fashion. The vines give good enough fruit after just one year to make a wine, and the main difference in consequent years is the yield.

All this sounds excellent, but the proof is in the pudding as one would say. I travelled down to the New Forest with a few other writers and an MW who is not involved in the project.

We tasted the very small number of wines they had in barrel, and there were some notable wines with great potential. Particularly a Bacchus orange wine which had been made with only 10% of the production in oak. It had tart, fresh fruit and peppery undertones, and one could see that by the time it will be in bottle, it should be very good. There was one other wine which was showing great potential, and it is a grape variety known for maturing well in hot climates, not England. Their Shiraz has lovely fruit, with touches of spice, and had only been in barrel for two and a half months.

They have some wines from the 2023 vintage in bottle and we tried them over a good lunch at Limewood House. The standout wines for me were a Gewurztraminer which had pronounced aromatics, a well-defined palate with lots of pears and white peach. There was also a B58 red, which is a blend of Shiraz, Merlot and 10% Cabernet, where they dehydrate the berries by 15% before vinification giving higher alcohol which results in purity of fruit, good tannic structure with typical green pepper flavours and pepperiness alongside rich fruit. The potential of these wines is clear to see.

So, one might ask how did this unusual method of producing wines come about?

Sandy Booth - Owner of Beaulieu Winery

It was one man’s obsession with growing things. Sandy Booth, a lifelong farmer, started B58 Winery as an offshoot of his established soft fruit business, New Forest Fruit. Drawing on his experience with tunnel-grown soft fruits, he applied similar methods to cultivate grape varieties—such as Shiraz and Gewürztraminer—that are not typically grown in the UK climate, making English wine production feasible.

Sandy grew up in St Andrews, Scotland, where he was introduced to farming through his father, who managed cattle on an Aberdeen Angus farm. In his twenties, he moved to Kent and developed practical skills in plant propagation, irrigation systems, and plant nutrition.

In 1997, Sandy joined tenant farmer John Boyd in Beaulieu as Soft Fruit Manager and helped introduce tunnel farming techniques in Southeast England. He contributed to growing a strawberry business from 50 to 2000 tons and, in 2008, formed a business partnership with Boyd. Over the past 16 years, he has overseen the production of approximately 4,500 tons of strawberries annually while also experimenting with crops like artichokes, apricots, melons, and asparagus. His approach to growing asparagus—using recycled coir from strawberry production along with specific bacteria and fungi—allows his operation to be the first in the UK to produce the crop each season.

Healthy roots grown in coir

More recent projects include converting misshapen strawberries into gluten-free, vegan fruit snacks and trialling Japanese strawberries to explore the possibility of year-round production. In 2022, Sandy began working with Swiss oenologist Guillaume Lagger, who crafted the winery's first wines and continues as the lead winemaker at Beaulieu 58 Wines.

The results are already good and priced between £15 and £35, they will be able to compete with other wines at similar price points. These wines might not have the terroir story of wines from England or further afield, but they are English, it is clear they will be superb indeed and above all, will consistently taste good year after year.

If you would like to try Beaulieu 58 wines, you can order a bottle from their website where they will also have listings of where to purchase as they become available.

 If you’d like to learn more about English wine and wine from all over the world please read our wine section.

Words by Colin Hampden-White