If you haven’t embraced the flourishing world of English Sparkling Wine just yet, then English Wine Week is the perfect time to do so. Over the last decade, it has stormed past still wine in terms of reputation and quality, rivalling Champagnes on the international stage and becoming a mainstay of wine lists.
So, if you’ve been put off by the English fizz of old, then we’ve got just the bottles to show you what you’re missing!
Balfour M&S Lark Song English Rose
From renowned winery Balfour comes this English Rosé, a refreshingly dry bottle that’s half Pinot Noir, and half Pinot Meunier, Regent and Chardonnay. Ripe redcurrants and zesty lemon provide a sweetness with some subtle tang and juicy pears flesh out the taste nicely. Elegant beyond its price point.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £16
Folc Rosé
Without a doubt, this is an English Rosé that holds more than a candle to the Provence Rosé selection. Bursting with ripe strawberries and raspberries, the sweetness is balanced to perfection. Floral and citrus hints with touches of elderflower and lemon keep things interesting, and the mix of seven varietals is so expertly blended that it feels delicate, vibrant, and fresh. Self-assured and sublime.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £17.95
Fitz Sparkling NV
Now for something a bit different. English wines are generally made in the traditional method like Champagne and with great success too, but Fitz doesn’t follow this method. Rather than a deep, biscuity and dry taste, this a super fresh and fruity expression more reminiscent of an approachable everyday sipper. Notes of peach, honeysuckle and apple intertwine in this delicate and light wine that could easily become a favourite go-to for any or no occasion.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £19
Silverhand Estate, Silver Reign Brut NV
The first release of Kent’s Silverhand Estate, this is a quintessential English fizzer made from Champagne varietals and by the Charmat method. Prosecco style with bright citrus and fresh orchard fruits, this really is an exceptional Champagne-rivalling liquid without the huge price tag.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £21.50
Lyme Bay Winery Brut Reserve
Down to Devon now, where Lyme Bay produced this fruit-forward blend of 6 different varietals including Seyval Blanc and Pinot Noir. Made in the traditional method, the result is a tantalising mix of acidity, full and fresh flavour, and a delicate fruity mousse. Freshly cut grass notes intrigue the nose, before opening up to green apple, toast, and citrus notes as well as just a hint of flinty minerals. Fantastic whatever time of year, this is a benchmark English sparkler.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £21.99
Rathfinny Estate Blanc de Noirs 2018
Rathfinny is another Sussex winery taking its rightful place on wine lists across the country, making full use of its sunny south-facing slopes. Single-harvest Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier join for this delicious, rich expression offering notes of cherry, vanilla, and baked apple. Minerality and florality intertwine harmoniously and a really loveable character comes across in every sip. This would sing alongside some fruity desserts!
Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £38.75
Gusbourne Blanc De Blancs 2018
Gusbourne has been stacking up the awards for a while now and for a good reason. Their original Blanc de Blancs more than got people’s attention in 2010, and every release since has commanded justified excitement. This 2018 Vintage is plush with crisp green apple, citrus and buttery toasts, with an elegant and lingering minerality to fill out the profile. You’re paying a bit more than most, but this is a wine that completely lives up to those expectations. Serve alongside quality seafood for the perfect culinary experience.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £63.95
Hattingley Valley Kings Cuvée 2015
This widely loved family-owned winery in Hampshire has been industry acclaimed since its first release. As is Hattingley’s way, this is aged for 7 months in oak and a further 6 years on the lees creating dreamy depths of texture and toastiness. A blend of 50% Chardonnay, 34% Pinot Noir and 16% Pinot Meunier, the balance of refreshing lightness and deep richness is magical. Honied nuts, brioche, creamy oak – it’s super premium English sparkling wine done perfectly.
Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.7%
Find here: £85
If you want to get up close and personal and see the English winemaking process from grape to glass, then check out these incredible Vineyard Tours!