Supermarket Wine Bargains: Sainsbury’s July 2024

Roll up, roll up Sainsbury’s shoppers and wine enthusiasts, we’ve got some unmissable offers for you. We've scoured every bottle on offer until July 16th, and these are the top picks for unbeatable value. Reds, Rosé, and whites, all under £10. Let's dive into vino heaven!

Sainsbury’s Red Wines July 2024

19 Crimes Red Wine

Here we are again with 19 Crimes. It’s such a favourite around this price point. This Shiraz-dominant blend is aged in American oak, bringing delightful notes of vanilla and cedar spice to complement the jammy blackcurrant and plum flavours. It has an almost Christmassy vibe, with a good dose of sweetness—if that's your thing, you'll absolutely love this wine.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £8 (usually £9.50)

B. Ink South Australia Red Blend

Exceptional at this price, this Australian red offers the signature opulence you crave and then some. True to its name, it's inky and rich, with velvety tannins blending seamlessly with upfront jamminess, raspberries, and dark chocolate. But that's just the beginning— festive layers of vanilla and cinnamon add characterful depth to die for. Sophisticated indulgence.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: £8 (usually £10)

Apothic Cabernet Sauvignon

This American red combines Cabernet and Zinfandel, offering a lush medley of dark fruits and a solid oaky structure. The standout feature is its incredibly smooth texture which makes the mouthfeel so dreamy and irresistibly moreish. If you're new to Cabernet Sauvignon, we highly recommend this as one of the best affordable options to try.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £9 (usually £10.50)

Sainsbury’s Rosé Wines July 2024

Roches de Provence Côtes de Provence

This is a Provence Rosé that is calling for a chilled sip on a hot summer’s day. The lovely pale hue opens up notes of rose and strawberry on the nose, and these kick through on the palate with decent intensity – none of this wishy-washy Rosé flavour here. Bright, refreshing and nicely balanced with a gorgeous kiss of honey sweetness towards the end. This wine is excellent value for money—you’d expect to pay twice the price for this quality.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £8.75 (usually £10)

Sainsbury’s White Wines July 2024

Plaimont Côtes De Gascogne Colombard Sauvignon Blanc

Plaimont are a great cooperative that have revitalised many French wines and vineyards, and this gem is one we keep spotlighting whenever it’s on offer. From the sunny slopes of Côtes De Gascogne, this easy-drinking Sauvignon Blanc offers plenty of crisp acidity to complement your mid-week meals. The Colombard adds a nice softness, making it a refreshingly vibrant wine.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £7.25 (usually £9)

Elia Côtes De Gascogne

Sticking with Plaimont and their signature Colombard grape is Elia Côtes De Gascogne. Now at a staggering £6.50, this is just superb value. The aromatic Colombard grape comes to life in this vibrant white, reminiscent of a top-notch New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. You'll find tropical hints mingling with refreshing orchard fruits and citrus, complemented by a floral, grassy note. Light, fresh, and absolutely lovable – particularly at this level of value.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £6.50 (usually £8)

Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc

Embark on a wine adventure with this Sauvignon Blanc, whose grapes are cultivated amidst ancient valleys, scenic mountains, and wild oceans, before arriving at Villa Maria… nestled beneath a volcano. This journey culminates in a glass filled with the signature Marlborough profile—no bitterness, just refreshing crispness and a wonderful lightness to it. Imagine flavours of gooseberry, passion fruit, kiwi, and green apple – all the Marlborough favourites in one sip.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £8.50 (usually £9.50)

The Ned Pinot Grigio

This Waihopai Valley Pinot Grigio breaks the mould with its unique style. Behind its alluring salmon blush hue lies a burst of stone fruit flavours. It's rich and full-bodied, with a delightful twist of lingering minerality that we adore. Unlike typical European Pinots, this New Zealand gem surprises with notes of quince, pear, nectarine, and that intriguing minerality that brings a food-friendliness. Now's the perfect time to give it a try while it’s under a tenner.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £9 (usually £10.50)

PepperBox Chardonnay

This big Aussie beauty is like a warm hug of buttery vanilla, lifted by tropical mango and apricot notes. It's got the right balance of oak and absolutely shines when served chilled—pure bliss in a glass. With a deep golden colour and concentrated ripe fruits, it finishes so smoothly. Crafted by the Casella Family in Australia, this wine is an unbeatable deal at this price.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: £9 (usually £11)

If you shop elsewhere then not to worry, check our website for our other up to date Supermarket Bargains!

Celebrating LGBTQIA+ Brands and Love in Drinks

Pride Month is one of our favourite times of the year, and of course, so many drinks brands are happy to get involved. But as Pride draws to a close, we want to celebrate our favourites, old and new, that really go the extra mile and support LGBTQIA+ communities. Whatever your chosen tipple, we’ve found a drink that you can enjoy whenever you’d like knowing that they support the cause all year round.

GIN

Puerto de Indias Strawberry Gin Unlimited Edition LGTBIQ+

This Spanish Strawberry Gin from Puerto de Indias continues to fly the rainbow flag proudly. Made with fresh strawberries macerated for 48 hours before distillation, this process intensifies the flavours and aromas of the fruit considerably. They’ve made a point of stating that it’s not a Limited Edition by calling the opposite – an Unlimited Edition.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 37.5%
Find here: £26.34

Spirit of Stonewall Gin

Made at the family distillery in Lincolnshire comes the delicious Spirit of Stonewall London Dry gin. Their inspiration came from the Stonewall Riots and they provide all year advocacy support of LGBTQIA+ including donating £1 from every bottle or gift pack to support LGBTQIA+ causes. Their complex London Dry has botanicals of juniper, coriander, orange, liquorice, almonds, the tangy coastal berry and sea buckthorn. Check out their Passionfruit and Mango, Pink Rhubarb and Raspberry Gins too.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £36

Brighton Gin

From the UK’s gay capital comes this handmade craft gin brand that started in 2012. From small beginnings, it’s now available internationally! Look how absolutely stunning their 9th Limited Pride Edition is too with that glammed up Brighton seagull, courtesy of ‘queerodivergent’ artist Ladypat. Bravo! So much effort has been put into this gin, right up to the hand-mixed wax. A portion of the profits go to the local Clare Project too. As for the liquid, it’s super smooth with multiple awards loving it. Watch out for the delicious orange and liquorice notes.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £38

VODKA

Crystal Head Pride Edition

Crystal Head’s Pride Edition, an annual limited release that we love, stands out as the most theatrical bottle on the market. This vibrant rainbow-painted piece supports organizations like the Kaleidoscope Trust and Stonewall. Inside, enjoy their signature Canadian corn vodka, distilled four times with pure Newfoundland water and Herkimer diamond filtration, featuring hints of sweet citrus and vanilla.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £42.49 (usually more!)

Absolut Rainbow Pride

Long time ally, Absolut’s Pride edition features the proud, striking rainbow bottle in their permanent collection. Made with Swedish waters and winter wheat, this smooth, creamy vodka earned high praise at recent awards. Partnered with GLAAD, Absolut supports cultural change for acceptance, honouring Gilbert Baker's original Pride flag design.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £22.25

Supergay Vodka

Beautifully hand crafted in upstate New York, Supergay uses 100% organic corn from local sources and is filtered through activated coconut charcoal too for a clean, no-nasties expression. Super smooth and silky. Great vodka and amazing ethos. Only available in the US unfortunately, where local charities receive a portion of the profits.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: $30

Tom of Finland Vodka

Introducing Tom of Finland, aka Touko Laaksonen, a gay icon whose art revolutionized gay culture. His masculine, homoerotic creations adorn the standout vodka bottle. Crafted organically by Master Distiller Mika Mönkkönen at Finland's second oldest family distillery, Lignell & Piispanen, this vodka is distilled five times for smoothness, boasting subtle rye spice and no burn. Proceeds support the Tom of Finland Foundation, making each purchase meaningful. Legendary.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £25.05

RUM

Ninefold Pure Single Rum

This eye-catching Scotch Rum is produced at Ninefold’s distillery in Dumfries. Ninefold have really engaged with Pride this year, actively championing people through displaying how inclusive the drinks industry can be, donating to Equal Measures, enlisting queer bartenders as much as possible and sponsoring queer-led events. This rum itself is an unaged white, though they have a wide range of exceptional creations. It’s distilled from molasses and delivers a kiss of ginger spice, vanilla and lively citrus.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £34.44

WINE

Digby Fine English

Jason Humphries and Trevor Clough, inspired by a seventeenth-century alchemist named Sir Kenelm Digby and their experiences in Seattle wineries, launched Digby English Sparkling wines. Their bubbles consistently outshine Champagne in blind tastings, a testament to their dedication to excellence and diversity in the world of wine.

Size: Various
ABV: Various
Find here: From £28

Madame F Rosé

Madame F proudly collaborates with Queer Britain, sponsoring the Madame F Queer Britain art award since 2022. LGBTQ+ artist Justin Kemp’s winning artwork adorns every bottle. Inspired by the community, Madame F offers collections bursting with pride and passion. Their Rosé is refreshingly fresh, light, and juicy—a perfect tribute to their vibrant spirit. Give it a try!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £9.50

Gentleman Farmer 2021 Napa Valley Pride Red Wine

If you are visiting the U.S. then keep your eye open for Californian vintner duo Joe Wolosz and Jeff Durham, who specialise in creating rich and fruity Cabernet Sauvignon and delicious Chardonnays. They have created a premium limited edition 2021 blend of Napa Valley Pride Red Wine. This is an exciting blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with hints of mulberry, redcurrants and vanilla. 10% of sales from this goes to support LGTBQ+ youth organisations.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: $119

Barefoot Wines Pink Moscato

Since 1988, for over 30 years Barefoot Wines has been a proud supporter of many different LGBTQIA+ organisations and you can often find them at many Pride festivals, showing their long-term support for this community. They have a wonderful range of delicious wines to choose from depending on your preference. Perhaps you might opt for a rich Merlot, a lighter fresh Sauvignon Blanc or a sweeter Moscato like this, whichever you choose there is bound to be something you will enjoy. Great value too.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 9%
Find here: £7.25

CANNED DRINKS

LUV JUS

Inspired by Tel Aviv Pride 2016, housemates George and Owen launched a line of healthy craft vodka pops. Recognized by the Great Taste awards, their vegan-friendly, gluten-free creations include flavours like pineapple-mint, blood orange-pomegranate vodka, and raspberry-cucumber gin. Though the truth is, there’s a lot more depth of flavour in each can than that suggests, with Korean ginseng also included in each flavour. Each drink is low-calorie with no added sugar, supporting LGBTQ+ charities with 5% of profits—a perfect choice for Pride Month… and beyond.

Size: 150ml
ABV: 4.6%-4.8%
Find here: 6 for £15

The Drinks Bureau Dirty Shirley and Non-Alc Shirley Temple

Serious, award-winning canned cocktails and mocktails. First, the 0% Shirley Temple, a cherry-flavoured drink with warm ginger, tang and bitter touches. Then it’s alter ego – Dirty Shirley which brings the same flavour profile as well as steely vodka and a little more lemon zing. Stylish and delicious. 10p from each can goes to Stonewall Housing to support LGBTQ+ people facing homelessness.

Size: 250ml
ABV: 5% / Non-Alcoholic
Find here: £15 Dirty Shirley / £12 Shirley Temple (for 4)

BEER

PROUD

PROUD LGBTQIPA, coined as the original Queer Beer by founders Ethan and Sören, blends elderflower and citrus in a refreshing IPA. Supporting Diversity Role Models, LGBT Foundation, and Terrence Higgins Trust, £2.40 from every case (20p per can) aids these charities. Joining their Loyal Hunny group offers 10% discounts and more perks, making PROUD a delightful choice year-round. Love it.

Size: 330ml
ABV: 4.1%
Find here: £28 for 12

Queer Brewing Project

This is a great queer and trans-owned brewery looking to increase representation for their community in the world of beer. Based in London, they have lots of pop-ups so check out their Instagram or website for the next one! They’ve got a load of really intriguing beers, including special collaborations with Queer Britain currently sold out at the time of writing. But we love the look of their Witbier – Flowers. As bright and beautiful as a special bouquet, it balances snappy hops with bold coriander seed and orange peel.

Size: 330ml
ABV: 4%
Find here: £25.80 for 8

Athletic Brewing Ultimate Mixed Case Low-Alcohol

Athletic Brewing are based on both the east and west coasts of the US, with a huge, highly innovative brewing operation enabling unique flavour intensity in their low-alcohol beers. Focused on not just physical health but mental health too, they’ve got an extensive history with LGBTQI+ advocates, creating many specialist beers over their time. Their variety pack is a great way to start, featuring Run Wild IPA, Upside Dawn, Lage and All Out – an accessible range of refreshing golden ales, bold hops and rich roasted malts.

Size: 355ml
ABV: 0.5%
Find here: £20.10 for 8

Portobello Brewery - Polari

Portabello have been independently crafting distinguished beers and ales in West London since 2012. Polari is one of their best selling at different venues, and it’s brewed to support Stonewall Housing, with 10p from every pint donated. If you didn’t know, Polari is a secret language, originally used by people in theatres and fairgrounds and adopted by gay people in the 20th century to skirt the UK’s strict anti-homosexuality laws!

Size: 330ml
ABV: 4.2%
Find here: Various venues

Drop Bear Beer Co – Low Alcohol

Drop Bear stands proudly as the world’s inaugural alcohol-free brewery owned by an LGBT+ couple, Joelle and Sarah. The couple’s resolve was strengthened after a hate crime in 2022, reinforcing their commitment to combating discrimination and violence. Embracing their role as Galop Guardians since June 2022, Drop Bear Brewery champions inclusivity and community empowerment through their craft. This multi-pack of ‘near beers’ includes moreish New World Lager, unique Yuzu Pale Ale, tropical IPA and smoky Bonfire Stout. Taste for yourself to see what all the rave reviews are about!

Size: 330ml
ABV: 0.5%
Find here: £11.99 for 4

COCKTAILS

Tom Savano Finnish Liberation Cosmopolitan

Tom Savano crafts artisanal small-batch cocktails using Fairtrade, organic ingredients. Their Cosmopolitan Pride mix, rooted in the 1980s Cleveland gay scene, features Tom of Finland Organic Vodka—a tribute to the iconic gay artist. Just chill and pour with pride! A delicious ready to pour bar-standard cocktail – voila!

Size: 500ml
ABV: 20%
Find here: £22

Want some ready to drink cocktails to celebrate more? Check out our favourites here!

7 German Rieslings You Need to Try

Image credit: Wines of Germany

Blue Nun oder Liebfraumilch? Nein Nein.

When did you last try a German white wine, and Riesling to be precise? The mind might go blank. Aren’t they all a bit too sweet and acidic, with too low alcohol? Or you could be old enough to miss or mock ‘Blue Nun’, a semi-sweet German white, the mass market export brand associated with Liebfraumilch, literally ‘beloved Lady’s milk’; referring to the Liebfrauenkirche (the Church of Our Lady) in Worms, Germany, near where the wine was originally produced.

Departing from the often innumerable German wine labels with Gothic script and long, complicated names, Blue Nun became an ironic icon of German wine for many who do not speak German or are less familiar with what Germany has to offer the world.

Anne Krebiehl, the only German Master of Wine (MW) living in the UK, reminded us of how recently the status of German wine had changed within Germany itself. “People forget the doldrums of German wine, especially from about 1985 to 1995. If you were cool in Germany then, you didn’t drink German wine,” she said. “But it has changed this century. It happened with dry Riesling (Trocken) first. 

Winemakers in Germany have progressively steered away from the semi-sweet to sweet spectrum. There is now a wide range of well-made and balanced dry Rieslings and other whites that gain domestic and international recognition. However, that does not mean off-dry, semi-sweet or sweet wines are inferior. Far from that in fact; as the best grapes are often harvested late to retain their residual sugar. Riesling’s high natural acidity is perfect for balancing high levels of sweetness.

31 Days of German Riesling?

Image credit: Wines of Germany

The quality of German wines has improved immeasurably in the last two decades. To build on this momentum, Wines of Germany first launched the 31 Days of German Riesling campaign in 2012 (remember the London Olympics?) to raise awareness of Riesling.

Now for its 13th edition this July, there are over 100 events from in store tastings to virtual events and tasting menus across the UK. You can even play an interactive online game and find out more about your preferred style of Riesling here.

Research suggests it takes 30 days to form a new habit, so welcome to the 31 Days of (German) Riesling! Other countries and grapes are available, but why wouldn’t you want to drink outside your comfort zone?

The Riesling Grape

Image credit: Wines of Germany

A noble grape loved by the wine trade but often shunned by consumers, Riesling is probably one of the most misunderstood and underrated varietals. 

Naturally aromatic with high acidity, the late-ripening Riesling does not like heat. Vine-growers therefore have many harvesting options to make light to full-bodied wines from bone-dry to off-dry, semi-sweet or the sublimely sweet. The specific fruit flavours in the wine vary with the degree of ripeness in the grapes at the time of harvest. Grapes that are just ripe produce wines with green apples and pear, citrus flavours of lime and lemon, and floral characteristics. With grapes that are extra-ripe, we get flavours of stone fruit such as peach and apricot, tropical fruit (mango and pineapple) and even dried fruit (dried apricots).

Riesling does not like blends or oak either. It mirrors terroir - latitude, the soil and micro climate; and cooperates less well with the winemaker’s intervention. With the right conditions, it develops a tension true to its pedigree. 

No matter where in the world it is grown, the Riesling grape which retains acidity and builds up sugar and flavour slowly makes wines that can outlast those made from Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. This is true even of relatively inexpensive examples. Riesling develops more nuanced flavours as it ages. Some fine Rieslings could go on and on. Many years ago, Hugh Johnson and Jancis Robinson MW hosted a tasting in Frankfurt which demonstrated that a fine Mosel Riesling could outlast red Bordeaux. Some date back to the early 1970s and are still going strong if cellared carefully.

Deciphering the German Riesling label

Many modern German Rieslings sold on the UK market have simplified and adapted their former Gothic heritage to more contemporary designs. If you look at its front and back label, you are likely to see the following:

VDP with a dark eagle logo - that symbolises grapes from a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) which is further classified as either Qualitätswein - the wine must come from one of 13 ‘wine growing areas’ in Germany (see below) or Prädikatswein - a higher minimum level of sugar is required in the grapes that is needed for Qualitätswein.

There are six Prädikat categories. The most common of which are Kabinett, Spätlese and Auslese, classified in increasing sugar levels in the grapes at the time of harvest. Though these wines carry some sweetness, they can also be made in a dry style. All clear or totally confused?

The sweeter the wine, the lower the alcohol and, in general, the longer the wine’s life.

Keeping things simple, Trocken (dry) is perhaps the most useful term to look out for if you prefer that style of whites. Klaus Peter Keller, a champion exponent of it, who put Rheinhessen on the map feels that 30 or more years’ ageing is no problem for the most lauded of Germany’s dry Rieslings, the Grosse Gewächse (“GGs” equivalent to the Grand Crus in Burgundy).

Where is Riesling grown in Germany?

Image credit: Wines of Germany

Germany has almost 60,000 vineyard acres of Riesling. It grows in every one of Germany’s 13 major wine regions, called Anbaugebiete. The most famous Anbaugebiete for high-quality German Riesling are Mosel, Rheingau, Nahe, Pfalz, and Rheinhessen.

Mosel

The scenic Mosel Valley, named for the river which serpentines through it, is about as far north in Germany as Riesling could prosper; at least before climate change became an urgent issue. Vineyards in the narrow valley are on steep slopes of blue slate; some up to 80º elevation. The steeper the slope the better, as that gives vines “stadium seating” for best sun exposure as the river reflects light and heats up the slopes.

With its latitude, frequent cloud cover and rain, Mosel Rieslings have low to medium alcohol content with fruit leaning towards the least ripe profile - green apples, lemon and lime.

Rheingau

It’s a tiny region, making only 2% of Germany’s wine, but the vineyards all have southern facings with unimpeded sun exposure. Rheingau's slate is predominantly red which absorbs more water and heat from the sun than blue slate found in Mosel. That warmth is released to the vines at night.

As a result, Rheingau Rieslings tend to be riper, fuller, and more powerful than those from the Mosel. Their aromas and flavours reflect that with yellow stone fruit and even tropical notes. 

Rheinhessen

No Anbaugebiet makes more wine than Rheinhessen. Compared to most of the neighbouring growing areas, Rheinhessen is broad and without slope with very large vineyards. Lying just across the river from Rheingau, the same range of hills protects it. And the flat terrain means it gets sun all day.

Over the past twenty years, Riesling’s share of total plantation has risen from about 10% to nearly 20%. It is now the most-planted variety there.

7 German Rieslings to whet your palate

Image credit: Will Wong

Whether you are an aficionado or simply curious about German Riesling, we have hand-picked seven German bone-dry to off-dry Rieslings from Mosel to Rheinhessen. They share some core similarities - fresh acidity and versatility with food, whilst differ from having a touch of sweetness to saline minerality. There is something for everyone.

Sainsbury’s Winemakers’ Selection Riesling 2022, Rheinhessen

Image credit: Will Wong

Part of Sainsbury’s new mid-strength range, this own-label medium-dry Riesling is quaffable at an incredible price. Green apples with a hint of petrol on the nose, it’s ideal to drink with Thai or Vietnamese cuisine and anything fiery with chilli. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 9%
Find here: £5.00 Sainsbury’s

Waitrose Blueprint Dry German Riesling 2023, Moselland, Mosel

Image credit: Will Wong

An easy-drinking and good value dry Riesling from Mosel. At 11% ABV, it is ideal for summer but serve it at around 10-12ºC or its acidity might impair your tasting experience. Goes well with poached chicken and spicy dishes.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £8.49 Selected Waitrose and Waitrose Cellar (online)

Peter & Ulrich Griebeler Dry Riesling 2022, Mosel

Image credit: Will Wong

Peter & Ulrich Griebeler are a small, family-run producer based in Germany’s Mosel region. Sourcing grapes from different villages, they are aged on the lees for a subtly rounded texture. With hints of petrol on the nose, it is very pale with racy acidity of grapefruit. A touch of minerality that works well with summer salad and seafood paella.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £13.99 or £11.99 Mix Six, Majestic

The Society’s Exhibition Rheingau Riesling 2020, Hochheim am Main

Image credit: Will Wong

2023 Decanter World Wine Awards Bronze Medal. Based in Hochheim, Gunter Künstler, one of the Rheingau's top winemakers crafted this refined dry Riesling for The Wine Society (UK). Despite its lush tropical aromas of peach, white blossom and lemon curd, it is bone dry with a steely and long saline mineral finish. Very sensitive to temperature change in the glass, it’s best served between 10-12°C to maintain its fresh acidity. Richer than a Mosel Riesling, this would stand up well to spicy Asian dishes or even complement roast pork.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5% 
Find here: £14.50 The Wine Society

Zilliken Riesling Trocken 2022, Mosel

Image credit: Will Wong

Floral, clean cut dry German riesling from a ripe and sunny vintage. With citrus and a touch of apple, this has a steely and saline mineral finish. It has an underlying tension that needs time to unwind. In German, this is classified as a gutswein , which means estate wine. All the grapes come from the estate and from the various plots owned by Zilliken. Even so, ageing is done in traditional 1000-litre fuder barrels.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £15.50 The Wine Society

Fritz Ekkehard Huff Pettenthal Riesling Trocken 2021, Nierstein-Schwabsburg, Rheinhessen

Image credit: Will Wong

Schwabsburg lies a little inland from the Rhine, just behind Nierstein. The Huff family has been farming here since 1700. In 2010, Ekkehard Huff’s daughter Christine joined the family enterprise, and together with her New Zealand-born husband Jeremy, they are now part of the young ‘golden generation’ of winemakers who practise biodynamic viticulture.

No petrol or green apples aroma here. The winemakers are like an orchestral conductor who led the grapes and terroir symphony, where it is all finesse, balance with subtlety. Bone dry with a steely mineral finish. Think Chablis Premier Cru.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £22.00 Howard Ripley

Schloss Lieser Thomas Hagg Niederberg Helden Riesling Kabinett 2020, Mosel

Image credit: Will Wong

At up to 80º steep slopes with blue slate, the 110-year old ungrafted vines here in Niederberg Helden produce highly complex and premium Riesling with masculinity and structure. 

Pronounced green apples on the nose, this exquisite Kabinett Riesling is off-dry but not sickly sweet on its own. A little lychee mid-palate with minerals. It really shows its best when paired with sweet and sour cuisine. Chilli? Bring that on. The restrained sweetness and low-alcohol makes it a far better partner than any dry whites or reds. Drink to 2032.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 8.5%
Find here: £17.17 Howard Ripley

Why German Riesling?

We hope any scepticism about German Riesling is amply dispelled. An off-dry or even medium sweet wine could work wonders with strong cheeses and fiery South or Southeast Asian dishes. The resulting lower alcohol is just perfect for summer.

When it comes to the drier styles, its racy acidity and steely texture stays true to provenance and terroir, rather than manipulation by winemakers for a certain commercial style. Above all, Riesling when stored properly will age not only gracefully, but possibly outlive you. How much do you like your heirs?

If you want to know even more about German Riesling:

The Wines of Germany by Anne Krebiehl MW; part of The Infinite Ideas Classic Wine Library (Académie du Vin Library)

Louis Roederer International Wine Writers’ Awards Wine Book 2020 Winner. Comprehensive and scholarly, yet accessible to any wine enthusiast or student. It is an invaluable reference guide providing a historical context of German winemaking areas, and the rise of Riesling as well as Spätburgunder in Germany.

By Will Wong

9 Bulgarian Wines You Have To Try

Bulgaria is a lesser-known wine territory, with ancient winemaking traditions, and as such may be classified as part of the new world wine movement that consumers are slowly discovering. If you were to mention Bulgarian wines to many people, it is likely that they might not have tried Bulgarian wines before and would be surprised to learn of its winemaking history and background with over 260 registered winemakers!

In 1878, Bulgaria's wine renaissance began following the country's freedom from the Ottoman Empire and in 1980, Bulgaria was recognised as the Eastern Block’s largest wine producer. These days, there are more opportunities to try Bulgarian wines due to a greater focus on the promotion of wines from Central and Eastern Europe. Indeed, there was a Slow Wine Fair in Bulgaria in 2024, the inaugural edition of the Ultimate Central and Eastern European Wine Fair took place in London in June 2024 and, of course, there is the annual International Mavrud Day celebrated on 26 October. In the UK, many of these wines are available through The Jolly Merchants, formerly The Old Cellar, which is a specialist importer and distributor focusing on Bulgaria and the Balkan's winemaking regions.

Within Bulgaria, the wines produced are divided into regions and presently there are two official appellations recognised as Protected Geographical Indications (PGIs) - the Danubian Plains and the Thracian Lowlands, which includes the Thracian Valley.  But there is an increased need for greater diversity and as such there is a movement between winemakers, producers and the Bulgarian Association of Wine Professionals to establish more appellations including Rose Valley, Struma Valley and the Black Sea Coast, for example. There are many varieties of grapes found within Bulgaria ranging from indigenous varieties such as Dimyat, Gamza, Mavrud, Melnik, Red Misket and Rubin alongside international varieties that we may all know such as Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. We will therefore take you on this wine journey across Bulgaria to discover its wider range of appellations and grape varieties – are you ready?

Danubian Plains

Did you know that it was the wines from the Northwest of Bulgaria that first sparked international interest in the Bulgarian wine industry? This area contains remarkable, diverse terroirs with an overall continental climate with the norm being for the region to have heavy, cold winters but dry summers. You can find both red and white grape varieties within the Danubian Plains including Rubin and White Misket, whilst Gamza is also a popular grape variety for the region.

The Black Sea Coast is currently also included within the Danubian Plains appellation, but this may change should the appeal for wider appellations be approved. This region covers the North East of Bulgaria with the Black Sea and the Balkans Mountains forming part of the geographical diversity. The region tends to have mild winters which makes this a popular wine tourism location. White wines are popular on the Black Sea Coast, for example Dimyat, Misket and Chardonnay but red wine drinkers need not fear as you can also find wines produced from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir.

We have also selected some wines that you can try from the Danubian Plains appellation – let’s dive in!

Pét-Nat Riesling Extra Brut 2023, Tsarev Brod Winery, Black Sea Coast

Did you know that Pét-Nat is an abbreviation for the French term pétillant naturel, which means naturally sparkling? This is a semi-sparkling wine celebrating the trend towards having natural wines and Pét-Nat uses the Ancestral method of wine production which means that the wine is bottled before the completion of the first fermentation which is vastly different to the traditional method used for champagne and other sparkling wines that have a second fermentation in the bottle. This wine has also been aged for 4 months in the bottle.

The Tsarev Brod Winery planted its first vines, as part of a project in 2001 and these days offers both virtual and in person wine tasting sessions, which will be ideal for those curious about Bulgarian wines. This wine focuses on the Riesling grape variety and has small bubbles with a sweet pear and biscuity aroma on the nose. It is slightly cloudy, as expected for a natural wine, but has an unsweetened, dry, slightly acidic, apple tasting flavour profile but is light enough to be ideal as that aperitif on a summer’s day watching some polo matches!

ABV: 11.5%
Size: 750ml 
Find here: £19.99

Cabernet Franc Kavarna Single Vineyard 2022, Odessos Urban Winery, Black Sea Coast

Two brothers from the Vankov family founded this winery which is one of the first urban wineries in Bulgaria. Their aim is to represent the elements from the Black Sea Coast region within their winemaking. 2020 saw the launch of their first vintage and since then they have expanded the amount of grape varieties that they use. Their 2021 vintage of the Cabernet Franc wine had featured within the Top 50 Best Bulgarian wines by DiVino and the wine was also the winner of a silver prize award at the Decanter World Wine Awards. It is therefore unsurprising that the winery has been described as a rising star within the Bulgarian wine industry. Odessos Urban Winery is located close to the Black Sea Coast and the vines that they use are approximately 10 years old and the grapes are hand picked.

This wine is made from 100% Cabernet Franc grape, although this grape is quite often blended with Bordeaux grapes, and has minimal intervention. It is a medium bodied wine of a light ruby colour and has been aged in both Bulgarian oak barrels and stainless steel tanks. As such, there are instantly detectable spicy smells combined with blackcurrants and it is dry on the palate with balanced acidity and an unsweetened chocolate or Black Forest gateau flavour profile evoking that impression of a cherry base. Pair this with cheddar cheese for a wine and cheese night as the nights become cooler.

ABV: 13%
Size: 750ml 
Find here: £24.50

Gomotartzi Chardonnay 2020, Bononia Estate, Danube Plain

This is an award winning 100% Chardonnay wine which has collected the bronze in the Decanter 2022 Awards and the silver in the 2022 Chardonnay du Monde awards. The Gomotartzi Chardonnay is produced in the Danube Plain, which is Bulgaria’s second official appellation. The Bononia Estate is located along the banks of the Danube and with an onsite hotel it is a perfect wine tourism destination.

This vintage’s drinking window is up to the year 2026 and it is best served chilled. This is an unoaked Chardonnay, you will be pleased to know, and has a gooseberry aroma on the nose similar to a Sauvignon Blanc with hints of green apple. It is a zesty, crisp Chardonnay with a pronounced intensity and medium finish which will pair well with crab toast and amuses-bouches.

ABV: 13.5%
Size: 750ml 
Find here: £18.99

Thracian Lowlands

The Thracian Valley region contains a diverse soil type plus it is a culturally rich area combined with high winds, which will benefit the wine making process overall. Numerous wineries can be found in this location offering different styles ranging from the traditional to new age wines. Highly recommended wines from this region include sparkling wines as well as some outstanding red wines. Surprisingly, the most widely used grape variety appears to be Merlot, closely followed by Cabernet Sauvignon within this region.

The Rose Valley is probably the smallest wine region in Bulgaria, which also includes the fascinating city of Plovdiv. The popular indigenous Mavrud grape variety can be found within this location, which is a versatile, sophisticated wine. Another popular grape variety for this region is the Red Misket. The Rose Valley is an exclusive region, given its small number of wineries, but it is surrounded by the Balkan mountains and it is a popular region for rose flowers, of course.

Struma Valley is located to the Southwest of Bulgaria and tends to be another popular wine tourism destination. Here, is where the majority of the wine production of the Melnik grape variety occurs. As it is a hilly region, there are optimal conditions for the grapes alongside a warm, Mediterranean climate. Therefore, many tourist attractions can be enjoyed within Struma Valley. The region has an ever growing number of wineries that may also provide accommodation should you be following the Bulgarian wine route. 

Here are some wines that you can try at home or when travelling within Bulgaria from this Thracian Lowlands region – let’s explore further!

Melnik 55 2022, Logodaj Winery, Struma Valley

The Melnik region along the Struma River is one of the smaller wine producing areas within Southwestern Bulgaria. The Logodaj Winery was founded in 1994 and is situated in the middle of historically significant cities and focuses on growing native Bulgarian varieties such as Melnik 55 as well as some international grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc. Did you know that Melnik 55 was apparently a favourite grape variety of Sir Winston Churchill?!

The Early Melnik Vine aka Melnik 55 is a blend of the Broad Leaf Melnik and pollen from other varieties. This variety typically ripens towards the end of September and may therefore naturally be sweeter.  However, this is a fruit forward, off-dry wine with gentle oak barrel maturation. This Melnik 55 has a raisin, dried fruit aroma and may invoke impressions of a fruit cake aroma. It is a ruby red colour, medium bodied with tobacco, juicy red cherry, blackcurrants and spice within its flavour profile to make this a smooth, very quaffable wine with a medium finish. It is a definite crowd pleaser and would be the wine to bring to introduce friends and family to Bulgarian wines and impress them with its versatility.

ABV: 14%
Size: 750ml 
Find here: £17

AXL Rose Valley Misket 2023, Chateau Copsa, Rose Valley

Despite its name, this wine has no connection to the Guns N’ Roses lead singer bearing a similar stage name! Instead, the Château Copsa winery was founded by the Minkov family in 1998 and its building certainly resembles a castle with impressive stone towers and houses its own winery!

This wine is made from 100% Red Misket grapes, which is typical for the Rose Valley, and this vintage has a drinking window up to 2027. This Misket wine is part of a limited release from this indigenous grape variety, with just 1300 bottles produced, and has been hand harvested. It is a dry, medium bodied white wine with hints of floral aromas as well as a fruity, pear aroma on the nose. There are stone fruits on the palate and overall this is an easy drinking, smooth, tangy but balanced wine. 

You can also experience the beauty of the Rose Valley region and absorb the aromas from the nearby rose and lavender fields. There is a French ambience too, with onsite accommodation, for those seeking an unspoilt holiday destination for that secret escape.

ABV: 13%
Size: 750ml 
Find here: £17 - 2023 vintage available September 2024 onwards

Villa Melnik Orange Wine 2020, Thracian Valley

Villa Melnik is a Southwestern family owned vineyard that specialises in being a gravity flow vineyard. There is an emphasis on using local grapes and therefore this orange wine is a blend of the locally grown Bulgarian Keratsunda grape variety and Sauvignon Blanc. This orange wine has skin contact for a few weeks to create that orange hue and is fermented in stainless steel tanks. There is a pleasant fruitiness to this dry wine which is aromatic with a natural wine profile and would work well with cheesy pasta dishes. The winery is also open every day for those wine tours and tastings.

ABV: 12%
Size: 750ml 
Find here: £26.95

Pink Side of Rubin Rosé 2022, Georgiev/Milkov, Thracian Valley

This wine has been produced by the young winemakers Georgiev and Milkov who started their project in 2014 and sought to highlight indigenous Bulgarian grapes, such as Rubin and Mavrud on the international stage. Their efforts led to them finding a 40 year old vineyard that had Rubin grapes and the rest, as they say, is history! Rubin was created in 1944 as a blend of Syrah and Nebbiolo – did you know?

This wine has been aged for 4 months in French barrels and has a refreshing, floral and elegant profile. The drinking window for this vintage is up to 2026. It is a salmon pink Provençal style colour with strawberries on the nose and medium intensity but it is dry on the palate and would pair well with almonds for a summer picnic.

ABV: 12.5%
Size: 750ml 
Find here: £21.05

Yuli's Shiraz, 2021, Thracian Valley

Yuli’s is a family run winery that has a history of winemaking in Southwest Bulgaria since the 1900s. It is also an award winning winery with a dramatic backstory as the winery fell out of the family’s hands in 1940! But, the present owner founded the winery in 1989 and has undertaken a restoration project. 

This is a medium bodied Shiraz with blackberry and tobacco on the nose. It is a purple berry colour and slightly tannic on the palate with a medium finish and a bitter aftertaste. This Shiraz would work well with tomato based dishes.

ABV: 13%
Size: 750ml 
Find here: £8.99

Santimenti Mavrud 2022, Zagreus Winery, Thracian Valley

This winery has been producing organic wines since 2010 and planted their first vines in 1998. Zagreus Winery is focused on sustainability and the ecosystem and became Bio certified. Their philosophy is for low intervention. Mavrud is an indigenous Bulgarian grape variety and this medium bodied wine is vegan friendly. It is purple in colour with blackcurrant aromas on the nose as well as white pepper aromas. On the palate, this is a tangy, dry wine with complexity and is a good wine to share to showcase the range that Bulgarian wines have!

ABV: 13.5%
Size: 750ml 
Find here: £18

For that extra special treat, we present you with what is known as Bulgaria’s traditional drink, which is Rakia. Whilst this is not a wine, it is a grape Rakia and is similar to Grappa in that sense and can be enjoyed as that digestif to cleanse the palate.

Arkana Rakia from Muscat Ottonel, Seewines Spirit JSC, Thracian Valley

The grape variety for this Rakia is Muscat Ottonel, which involves a fermentation of parts of the juice. Interestingly, SeeWines Spirit JSC planted their first vineyards with Muscat Ottonel in 2016!

This Rakia has had some ageing in oak barrels and is a light golden colour. There is an intensity on the nose with hints of spices and rose to provide that balance. Whilst it has that stronger flavour similar to Brandy and that warmth on the chest there is also a slight floral and honey aftertaste to ensure that it will appeal to most palates. The Arkana Rakia is also an award winner within the Spirits Selection of the 2022 International Competition in Brussels.

ABV: 42%
Size: 700ml 
Find here: Currently not available for shipping, but find Rakia here.

You may be wondering why there is no mention of Bulgaria’s capital city Sofia within these wine regions. Indeed, Sofia is carved out but, we do have you covered in that respect if you wish to visit Sofia and its neighbouring areas to partake in some wine tasting and a bit of wine tourism on holiday.

The Sofia Wine Walk company specialises in sommelier led wine tours to 2 or 3 locations, a bit like a bar crawl, where you can experience different wines according to your personal preferences. There are 6 Bulgarian wines to try, with tapas available at some locations, and it is a fun, enjoyable way to explore Bulgarian wines and to meet new people too! You could be a solo traveller for these wine walks or travel with family or friends and these walking wine tasting sessions are also a good gift for a special occasion.

Reservations can be made online too: https://sofiawinewalk.com/en/

As you can see, the Bulgarian wine landscape is emerging and transforming with many new projects and innovations being developed. We hope that this article will provide that inspiration to try another wine region and explore the variety of grapes within Bulgarian wines. As there are various events showcasing Bulgarian wines now, would you be tempted to go to one or to visit Bulgaria for wine tours? We can’t wait to hear about your Bulgarian wine adventures.

By Latoya Austin

Sweet Summer Sippin’: Why You Need Orange Wine In Your Life

Orange wine - or “Amber Wine” - has taken high end cocktail bars and quirky bottle shops by storm over the course of just a few years, begging the question, what is it and why has it suddenly got a vice grip on the world of fine wine? Could it be the next Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio? Today we aim to inform, dispel some myths, and hopefully explain just what orange wine is and why you need it in your life.

Many distributors have reported skyrocketing sales in recent years and this trend is predicted to continue and propel orange wine into the halls of wine fame. As consumers (that’s you!) become more privy to new wine styles, and more conscious of the things they put into their body, it seems orange wine is here for the long haul with producers boasting organic processes and a very real devotion to biodiversity and environmental protection. 

One can expect wines all along the spectrum with notes of tropical fruits, citrus, honey, orange blossom and so much more. We’ll delve into exactly what makes orange wine tick a little later. For now, we ask the question: 

Is Orange Wine for You?

It is disingenuous to associate orange wine with any category other than its own. With a unique history and a complex flavour profile, it’s best to take orange wine as its own product, rather than comparing it to red or white wine. It’s good to get an idea of what you’re in for when trying something totally new. Therefore, Orange Wine might be for you if: 

• You want to try something new. 

• You want something a little different for your summer get-together. 

• You prefer wines that are additive free and organic. 

• You’re looking for a wine rich with antioxidants. 

• You enjoy particularly tropical, citrusy and tannic wines.

• You love dry wines. Sweet Orange Wines exist, but typically they are unsweetened and often have more in common with a dry white wine on the palette than anything else.

Orange wine for beginners

The first thing you should know about Orange Wine, is that it is not a flash in the pan, fad or trend. In fact, it comes from an ancient technique that has been resurged, revamped and rebranded. It’s actually thousands of years old and emanates from ancient winemakers in the country of Georgia. Roots can also be found in Italy and Slovenia, but these days, Orange Wine is made all over the world. The point we’re trying to make is, Orange Wine is here to stay.

Another myth we simply must dispel is the common misconception that Orange Wine, with its orange sunset hue, is orange flavoured. What actually differentiates Orange Wine from white wine production is that during fermentation, the skin of the grapes is left on, and leaves a tint on the final colour of the wine. Some wines might have notes of orange peel, but that has more to do with the winemaker's masterful use of tannins than it does any kind of inclusion of real orange. 

The “grape skin contact” method of wine production creates a delightfully bright, sharp wine with endless variety depending on the style of white wine grapes used. Many orange wines are considered to be “natural wine”, or “low intervention wine” to coin a winemaker's term. All this means is that the wines are made from fermented grape juice and not altered after the fact - this means no additives and a more pure, fermented flavour profile. 

Typically, Orange Wine should be served in your favourite wine glass, preferably chilled, at around 10 degrees celsius. 

So now you know what orange wine is and where it comes from. Now we ask the all important question of what to drink? There are new orange wines popping up every single day and a definitive catalogue is impossible, but just to start you off, here are some great bottles you can get your hands on:

Domaine Lafage Taronja de Gris

Taronja is the Catalan word for orange, paying homage to this producer's rich Catalan heritage. This blend of three grapes is aged in oak for six months and boasts heavy peach, tropical fruit, bitter citrus and peppercorn on the palate. A fine example of the versatility of orange wine, to be enjoyed alongside all manner of dishes, and works incredibly well as an aperitif. It has a fresh, persistent finish that will leave you wanting more…

Size: 750ml
ABV: 14.5%
Find here: Drinkfinder £23.99

Kakhuri No. 8 

If you’ve read this far, you should know by now that Orange Wine is traditionally from Georgia. This excellent bottling is a blend of four grapes indigenous to the historic region - Rkatsiteli, Kakhuri Mtsvane, Khikhvi and Kisi. Grapes are hand selected for a rigorous quality control process, and are allowed to age with the wine six months after fermentation resulting in a wine that is as fresh as it is funky; deeply aromatic with dried apricot and nutty notes. Enjoy this one cool, not cold. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: ND John - £13

Denbies Orange Solaris 

Produced in the independently run Denbies Wine Estate, this historic vineyard has crafted an award winning British Orange Wine from 100% Solaris grapes, hand-picked and made almost exactly in the same fashion they would make their red wine offerings. The white wine grapes provide a fresh pineapple quality on the nose, yet this fantastic wine is bold enough to stand up to a perfect pairing with spiced foods. Expect lychee, tropical fruits and pomegranate in this delicious bottle. Also, fun fact - Denbies is the first UK vineyard to be carbon net zero!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: Grape Britannia - £27.49

Glekhuri Kisi Qvevri

Want a taste of something truly traditional? This Georgian wine is made from 100% Kisi grapes, which are the closest thing to a traditional orange wine grape. With over thirty years in the winemaking industry culminating in this refreshing and classic example of skin-contact wine. This deeply tannic and structured Orange Wine expression is fermented underground for two weeks. On the palate, expect citrus fruits, walnuts and toasted oak. This is a fantastic introduction to the historic Orange Wines of Georgia. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13%
Find here: Hedonism Wines - £27.30

Denbies Orange Vermouth

Now for something a little different, in the interest of showcasing just how versatile the world of Orange Wine can be, from the makers of the aforementioned Solaris comes this delightfully complex vermouth using the Solaris grape skin pressings. The result is a crisp, dry aperitif that is fantastic on its own but also brilliant in a cocktail. Try in a dry gin Martini or in a hi-ball with soda. 

Size: 700ml
ABV: 18%
Find here: Denbies - £26

Orancio Savoia 

From the makers of aperitif powerhouse Italicus comes this fantastic expression using orange wine as its base. Inspired by the flavours and spices Marco Polo may have come across during their voyage through the silk roads of Asia. The harmonious combination of spices and citrus fruits with a traditional orange wine makes for a completely unique aperitif that evokes the spirit of adventure one might find in the Italian drinks industry. Enjoy over ice or in a classic spritz cocktail.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 17.2%
Find here: The Whisky Exchange - £21.95

Still not convinced? Well, why not try something a little bolder and explore this list of Eight Tannat Wines You Need to Try.

By Miley Kendrick

Is Wine Healthy and Good For You?

If you love your wine, then you’ll definitely have wondered how healthy it actually is. You’ll probably also have heard different things about, for example, red wine’s health benefits, and more so than anything, you’ll have hoped that all the good stuff is true, and the bad stuff is exaggerated. Let’s get to the bottom of it once and for all.

Research into this area has been ongoing for a long time, but dietitian Cynthia Sass recently published a medically reviewed article for Health.com that makes for very interesting reading. Ruby reds, with Pinot Noir leading the charts, contain significantly more antioxidants than other styles. These have numerous benefits including protection from free radicals which cause skin damage, skin elasticity, heart disease protection and so on.

Red wines like this can also boost good cholesterol whilst decreasing bad cholesterol, with moderate consumption linked to a 12% increase in good cholesterol. But the boons don’t end there. Resveratrol is a polyphenol found in grape skins, but mainly red grapes and Pinot Noir has up to 16mg per litre. It’s been linked to plenty of health benefits including reductions in the risks of certain cancers.

White wines enjoyed far less skin contact time during their production, so miss out on many of these benefits. However, if you adore whites, then dry whites with less sugar are the healthier choice – certainly more than many spirits and cocktails.

One style of wine that also stands out as a bit of a winner for your health is orange wine, described in this latest research as the second healthiest after reds. There is plenty of skin contact to achieve the beautiful orange colouring, which results in a boost for antioxidants and polyphenols. Not as good as reds, but better than whites.

The other main piece of advice, no matter the wine style, is to try and go for organic. The full benefits aren’t yet known, but it’s believed that the reduced chemical-usage and pollution is not only better for the environment but better for you too.

Now, that’s the goodness that can be contained in wine covered, but of course, it isn’t plain sailing into the sun – far from it. Where we mentioned clearer, younger-looking skin earlier; well, excessive alcohol actually damages the skin. And this example highlights the most important thing to remember, that, let’s face it, we probably all knew anyway – moderation is the key.

So much of the research concerning the benefits of alcohol and wine is in development or conflicting and we just can’t be absolutely sure. Most researchers agree that ‘red wine in moderation’ doesn’t do much harm and is most likely to be fairly good for you for the reasons stated above – yippee! However, the negative effects of continued, excessive alcohol consumption are far more studied and known about – weight gain, strokes, liver damage, blood pressure, heart damage, cancers and so on.

In conclusion, you can sleep easy knowing that the most popular way to enjoy wine (a glass with dinner) on multiple days of the week is okay, and if it’s an organic, dry red then there’s every chance it’s good for you too. But don’t get your hopes up that this and this alone will keep you healthy. For example, it may be possible to get these same wine benefits from grape juice or grapes themselves, and it’s certainly possible to get them from other sources that are proven to be fantastic for your health like exercise and vegetables.

To finish with a bit of positivity, we want to remind you that researchers have also looked into the benefits of the act of drinking wine itself. Enjoying a wine that you find delicious, particularly with complimentary food and socialising with friends is beneficial to overall health. Not only is it fundamentally enjoyable, which is what life is all about, but experiencing this is also great for your health and mood.

La Fête: America’s Hottest Rosé Arrives in the UK

The wine industry has historically been something of a closed club, dominated and often gatekept by white men. Things are improving and diversifying with many more exceptional women winemakers and people of colour rising through the ranks, setting up their own businesses and paving the way for more of the same from future generations. Nonetheless, there remains lots of work to be done. Still today, only around 1% of wine producers in America are black-owned for example. One person blazing the trail is Founder and CEO of La Fête Wine Company, Donae Burston.

After a high-profile career with LVMH working in and amongst some of the world’s most prestigious wine brands, and experiencing directly the feeling of being an outsider, Donae wanted to create something of his own. Whilst celebrating his 30th in Saint Tropez, he first had a taste of pristine Provence Rosé and his path was forged in that moment.

La Fête’s mission is to bring exceptional Provence to the world and revitalise wine culture to make it accessible and inclusive to more people. Since launching in only 2019, they’ve made staggering progress on both these fronts, taking the US by storm and securing partnerships with a selection of the finest restaurants there. They’ve also put their money where their mouth is on the ground, using sale proceeds to create travel experiences and industry opportunities for underrepresented young people, so not only are they setting an inspirational example for the BIPOC community, but they’re financially supporting them too. Bravo.

Striking a partnership with the renowned Château Saint-Maur, one of only 18 Cru Classé estates in Provence, La Fête now have a coveted trio in their name – first the Rosé, then the Blanc and finally the Rouge. Their flagship La Fête du Rosé was the only wine in its category to be awarded the Double Gold medal at last year’s highly regarded World Wine & Spirits Competition.

A pale blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah, vivid stone fruits tantalise on the nose, where you also get a sense of slight minerality. In the mouth, the precise blend of exotic fruits explodes with juicy flavours and incredible refreshment, with subtle nutty depth rounding the profile off.

In the US, Rosé has long been marketed as a summer sipper for women, unlike France where it’s enjoyed by all at any time of year. To change entrenched perceptions like this, the wine itself needs to be good enough so that everyone wants to drink it, and they can’t wait until summer to do so. As the fastest-growing imported luxury Rosé in the country, La Fête have clearly cracked it.

And now, the hype is crossing over from the Atlantic, as UK Sommelier Wine Awards’ Fine Wine Merchant of the Year winner Top Selection are making the full trilogy available in the UK exclusively through them.  If you’re interested in Provence Wine and want to taste La Fête’s offering, then you’ll be able to from June onwards – in other words, any day now!

For more information about La Fête Wine Company, explore their website here!

12 of the Best Wines for English Wine Week 2024

Image credit: Will Wong

Mention English wine and you may get three types of responses. Preaching to the converted, still an overall minority; or those who remember trying a few sparklers, usually from the big and established producers. The rest didn’t even know wines are made in England, or believe they are generally overpriced and not very good. Does that resonate with your experience?

In fact, there are now almost a thousand vineyards scattered across England alone, including over 200 commercial wineries. The paradox of climate change and global warming has benefited English vineyards in general. In 2022, total production was up by 36% year-on-year. 2023 saw a bumper harvest in which the UK experienced higher-than-ever yields and bunch numbers due to the volume of rain throughout the growing season. So, the only way is up, right?

What is the English Wine Week?

Image credit: Will Wong

The first English Wine Week (EWW) was launched in 2006 when Laura Rhys MS was a sommelier struggling to convince consumers of the merits of English sparkling. Now, Rhys, a brand ambassador for Gusbourne Estate, can legitimately pitch the Fifty-One Degrees North, Gusbourne’s prestige cuvée (and the most expensive English wine on the UK market at £195), against the likes of Dom Perignon. In just under three decades, the English wine scene has progressed by leaps and bounds. 

In 2024, EWW officially runs from Saturday 15th to Sunday 23rd June. Producers and vineyards across the land, including the four urban wineries in London are throwing parties and special popup events. It is the perfect opportunity to spend your holidays and weekends with a stay or trip to your local vineyard, celebrating at a wine festival, and then taking home a couple of bottles to share your experience with friends. The WineGB website has a dedicated page on how to get the most out of EWW 2024.

To mark this special occasion, this bumper edition takes you on a tasting tour with twelve very different wines from Suffolk to the Crouch Valley in Essex (one of the most sought after vine-growing spots), then through Kent and Sussex to Dorset and finally weather-permitting tropical Cornwall. You might see a few familiar and favourite labels, and be surprised by others. Above all, we wish to champion some lesser known but worthy contenders on the ever expanding English wine stage; not just at home but extending far and wide to the United States, Scandinavia and Japan.

The Best English White Wines

In volume terms, still wines account for around a third in total production compared with sparkling. The marginal climate and erratic weather patterns in Britain do not ensure consistent ripening conditions for grapes; at least before the 1980s. Vine-growers back then experimented with German varietals such as the white Müller-Thurgau and Reichensteiner, which had a higher chance of early ripening in cooler climates. It is also much more challenging to make decent still wines with unripe grapes and their overt acidity.

Wine writer Henry Jeffreys recalled the trailblazer Gillian Pearkes with her 1981 book ‘Vinegrowing in Britain’: while everyone else was looking to Germany for inspiration, she saw that France and specifically Champagne and Chablis could be a model for viticulture in England. As well writing on the subject, Pearkes planted her own vineyard at Yearlstone in Devon, acted as mentor to Bob Lindo at Camel Valley in Cornwall and encouraged Stuart and Sandy Moss at Nyetimber: “Find the right site and you will grow Chardonnay in England,” 

Four decades on, Chardonnay and Bacchus (covered in our previous guides) are now the most planted white grapes in England. Although they are yet to gain comparable international standings as the sparklers, quality has improved beyond imagination as producers experiment with sites and signature styles. Below are two outstanding Chardonnay and two Pinot Gris (related to Pinot Grigio) with very different characters.

Simpsons Estate Chardonnay 2022, Kent

Image credit: Will Wong

‘The only question that matters is who’s going to buy your wine’

~ Charles Simpson

Charles and Ruth Simpson started their wine business as Domaine Saint Rose in Languedoc, southern France in 2002. By 2012, they saw the potential and moved back to England. After buying a 12 hectares / 30-acre site with lime-rich chalk soil in the North Downs in Kent, similar to the terroir in Champagne and Burgundy, Simpsons’ Wine Estate was born. Followed by their own winery in 2016, they now own three vineyard sites covering 38 hectares / 112 acres. 

Whilst most new vineyard owners opted for the sparkling clones (safer for Britain’s cool climate but needs a much longer time span before any wines are ready to be released), Ruth Simpson hatched a bet with planting some non-sparkling clones; hoping to sell still wines before their first sparkling is ready for the market. The high-quality and bumper 2018 vintage firmly established the Simpsons brand. 

This unoaked Chardonnay seems to have two personalities. Those who love the classic lush tropical fruits on its nose will be drawn instantly. Or if you are ‘anything but Chardonnay’, the greatest surprise came when paired with smoked haddock risotto. It turned flinty with a long finish like a Chablis. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £12.74 (25% off £16.99 till 02/07/2024)

The Only Way is Essex

Tell your wine snob friends about ‘Grapes from Essex’ and raise a few eyebrows. Crouch Valley to be precise, where Chardonnay and Pinot Noir flourish and ripen beautifully to turn into premium still wines. No, this is not a joke about Essex. It is no secret to most in the wine trade that many of the UK’s best-known wine producers, from the southernmost vineyards of the country and all the way up north, are buying fruit from Essex and have done so for many years. Instead of the chalky soil at Simpsons in Kent, the River Crouch occupies a shallow valley between two ridges of London clay, and it is the combination of this deep and very particular London clay, the steep south-facing vineyards and the protected microclimate of this partially enclosed, tidal estuary that come together in creating this sweet spot as Tamlyn Currin observes.

From Brick Lane to River Crouch

Riverview Crouch Valley is the heart and soul of young husband and wife team Umut and Katie Yesil, who left their flat off Brick Lane in East London for rural Essex. Working with the highly respected viticulturist Duncan McNeill, the family converted 4 hectares / 11 acres of their arable land facing the River Crouch into a vineyard back in 2017. They make only single varietals: Chardonnay and Pinot Noir as premium still wines; with Pinot Meunier in sparkling wines. 

After harvest, the grapes are transported to Devon-based Lyme Bay Winery who has been sourcing grapes from Essex, where winemakers James Lambert and Sarah Massey produce the wine for Riverview Crouch Valley. Their debut 2020 Chardonnay received critical acclaim from critics and buyers alike. At the end of 2023, Umut and Katie released their first 2021 Pinot Noir, along with their 2021 Chardonnay. In 2024 they will be launching their first sparkling wine, a 100% Pinot Meunier from 2021.

Riverview Crouch Valley Chardonnay 2021, Essex

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With its classic and simple label showing off the now famous River Crouch, this is one of England’s finest. There is not yet any typical English Chardonnay style. It does not try to be Burgundian or Australian / Californian. Despite its pale lemon appearance in the glass, the nose is lush with restrained tropical fruits. Nothing shouty here. Hints of vanilla comes through the brief oak ageing in old French barriques. The palate has subdued stone fruit with a little smokiness which is unusual for a Chardonnay. Whichever camp of ABC you belong to, this is a serious gastro wine that calls for your attention. A match made in heaven with roast chicken as Katie suggested, or even roast pork. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £36.00

Sandridge Barton Little Bee Pinot Gris ‘Wild Ferment’ Free Run 2022, Devon

Image credit: Will Wong

Back in the 1960s, Maurice and Ruth Ash moved with their Jersey cows from Essex on the train to the Sharpham Estate over-looking the River Dart in South Devon. Over time, they planted some trial vines on the sunny south-facing slope in front of Sharpham House. Successes were steady with the next generation of vine-growers and winemakers in the Ash's nephew, Mark Sharman and Duncan Schwab, head winemaker and now CEO, who joined the team in 1992.

Then in 2008, Sharpham were approached by the owner of Sandridge Barton Estate on the eastern riverbank for help with planting vines on the basis that Sharpham might take the grapes. The terroir and its proximity was godsend to expand Sharpham’s acreage by 120%. And finally in 2020, Sharpham built its own solar-powered, with rain and waste-water harvesting 120,000 bottle capacity two-level winery adjacent to where the majority of the fruit is sourced. That culminated in the decision to relocate and rebrand as Sandridge Barton, with a fully-fledged visitor centre and cafe since 2022. 

Only 3300 bottles were released. Unfined, unfiltered with minimal sulphur, this experimental orange wine had two-week skin contact with indigenous yeast during fermentation. It is a little like the natural wines made with amphora from Georgia. Taut acidity with firm tannins. Due to the lees in the bottle, expect cloudiness so best stand the bottle upright for at least an hour before opening. Decant and serve at room temperature with Carpaccio. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 10.5%
Find here: £21.00

Oastbrook Pinot Gris 2023, East Sussex

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Oast – a kiln for drying hops. Brook – a small natural stream.

Oastbrook is located on a beautiful farm by the banks of the River Rother, only a stone’s throw from Bodiam Castle in East Sussex. It had been owned by Guinness for the farming of hops as the Oast houses themselves were used for drying the hops. 

The wine estate is the brainchild of husband Nick and wife America Brewer who grew up in the Bahia region of Brazil. Nick used to work in finance internationally but retrained at Plumpton College as a winemaker. America was top of her year in plant biology on her BSc in viticulture and oenology at Plumpton. She planted her first vines at Oastbrook only in 2017. They tell their own story here.

Nick described their wines as America’s sunshine and charismatic personality in bottles. The couple passionately believe in sustainable ecology starting with soil health. “Learn from the grapes and don’t copy others” is their shared motto. With the range of activities and amenities on site, their dedication to the land, produce and community with business acumen is evident. 

Only 2250 bottles of the 2023 Pinot Gris were released. Its nose could easily fool you as a Riesling with hints of petrol. A full-bodied unoaked gastro wine with citrus acidity and a long mineral finish. Think Bacchus or Sauvignon Blanc with greater intensity and texture. It pairs well with sautéed king prawns and asparagus pasta tossed in pesto. Abundant substance to lay down for a couple of years. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £22.50

The Best English Rosé and Red Wines

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Haphazard weather means variation in grape ripeness from vintage to vintage. The earlier varietals such as Madeleine Angevine, Dornfelder, Regent or Rondo seem to have fallen out of fashion to Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier which are used in making Traditional Method sparkling wines. But are rosés the answer to harnessing less than fully ripened black grapes? To date, there is no uniform signature English rosé style as in Provence. In global volume terms, English rosé is still a cottage industry through trial and error at the mercy of changing climate. When done well, there are hidden gems that are unique and not copycats of Provence or Italy. 

It is only in the last five years quality still wine is made out of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The amount of vineyards in Britain that are growing still wine grapes is probably in the low hundreds of hectares, which is the equivalent of one village in France worth of vineyard area. 

Producing a serious still Pinot Noir is even more demanding. Winemakers want the colour from the skin, which must be fully ripe – or they risk extracting harsh green tannins from it. It can be tricky to get the ripeness levels and style of fruit needed even with warmer summers over the last decade or so; according to Laura Rhys at Gusbourne. 

We have found four shining examples of English rosé and Pinot Noir well worth savouring.

Giffords Hall Rosé 2022, Suffolk

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Giffords Hall is a family owned vineyard planted on the site of an ancient glacial riverbed near Long Melford in Suffolk. The sandy/clay soil in the East Anglian desert as proprietor Linda Howard calls it produces quality grapes high in natural sugars and acids, that lend themselves particularly well to both sparkling and dry, aromatic still wines.

The Howards initially bought an established vineyard which is now 35 years old. The Giffords Hall label was officially launched in 2009 with a Rosé and a Bacchus still wine. Since 2020, Linda has managed the vineyard and winery with her daughter Ellie and son Harry together with a small team. 

In the bottle and glass, this rosé is very pale salmon pink from a careful blend of hand-picked Madeleine Angevine and Rondo, a deep red grape. Fresh strawberries on the nose and when served at 12ºC, it reveals its true flinty character which works beautifully with smoked wild Alaskan salmon and boiled new potatoes. Long finish. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £13.95

Folc Dry English Rosé 2023

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Husband-and-wife team Tom and Elisha Cannon decided to be an independent negociant sourcing the finest grapes grown on the best, family-owned and run vineyards across Kent, Suffolk and Sussex. Not restricted by historic rules or traditions, Folc was born in 2019 as an English rosé to rival the best from Provence. 

Folc makes only rosé; and in this case they have blended seven varieties of grapes from Pinot Noir to Bacchus and Ortega. Where the black grapes give the wine its ripe red fruit flavours of wild strawberries, raspberries and cranberries, the white grapes work in harmony to form an ensemble with a crisp and textural long finish. It is a serious pink gastro wine that compliments pan fried salmon wrapped in bacon with steamed greens. Serve well chilled.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £21.99

Knightor Portscatho Pinot Noir Précoce 2022, Cornwall

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The name Knightor is intriguing in itself. You can read about the history behind its brand here. Today, Knightor Winery is a boutique enterprise situated not far from the Eden Project and St Austell Brewery in Cornwall. They make premium quality, limited production English wines from grapes grown in English vineyards, and their own vines at Portscatho on the Roseland Peninsula, and Seaton on the south Cornish coast. It has also become an established Cornish wedding venue and rustic events space.

Retired IT professional Adrian Derx the owner is a down-to-earth entrepreneur. It is hard to imagine young winemaker David Brocklehurst already at the helm for twelve years and counting, creating a range of eclectic wines including a Riesling! Far more than just a vineyard with winery tours, there is also a restaurant and bar on site. and how about Sunday roast in their winery?

Its Alsatian or German style bottle, together with a distinctive cartography label really stands out. Unfined and unfiltered, so best stand the bottle upright for an hour before opening. Decant to separate its natural sediment and let the young wine open up. Dark fruits and bramble on the nose, followed by soft but well structured tannins and fresh acidity that will see this wine further develop over the next 2-3 years. A long and satisfying smoky finish that really puts Cornwall on the map for English wines. Pairs well with roast chicken or BBQ prawns. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £22.95

Davenport Redmoors Pinot Noir 2022, East Sussex

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Everyone in the UK wine trade has heard of the veteran vinegrower and wine maker Will Davenport, who began his career as a wine merchant in England in the 1980s. He then studied for a post-graduate diploma in oenology at Roseworthy College in Adelaide, South Australia. On returning to England, he worked at a vineyard in Hampshire with amazing grapes but very poor English wines no one wanted back then.

In 1991, Davenport planted his first five acres (two hectares) of vines at his parents’ apple farm in Horsmonden, Kent. He now owns 24 acres (10 hectares) across 5 plots, and fully converted to organic in 2000. Organic might sound admirable but remains a persistent challenge in the British cool climate with erratic rainfall patterns and humidity, making the vines prone to diseases. 

Firmly believing in the potential of great fruit from healthy vines, instead of using chemicals in the vineyard and winery, Davenport has been consistently creating both whites and reds with a depth of character. His wines inspired former music producer Adrian Pike to work as a winemaker under Will, before setting up his Westwell label. Other notable ex-apprentices include Peter Morgan (ex Nyetimber), Ben Walgate (ex Tillingham), and Ben Witchell (Flint in Norfolk). 

This Pinot Noir is sourced from the 5-acre organic Redmoors vineyard planted in 2016. Whole berries were fermented with natural yeasts, matured in oak for 18 months and bottled without filtration before release a further 20 months on. It is light in style comparable to a refined German Spätburgunder rather than the more intense Pinot Noir from Central Ortago, New Zealand or Oregon in the USA. Aromatic with complex red fruit and balanced acidity. 

Only 260 bottles were made.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11%
Find here: £24.20

The Best English Sparkling Wine

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For anyone who is already familiar with English wine, chances are they tasted a sparkling at some point. The international success of English sparkling wine is a relatively recent phenomenon, when in the 1990s producers realised respectable bubblies could be made in the traditional method just like champagne, with the three classic grapes of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grown in chalky soil across southeast England. 

That momentum was further confirmed in 2015 when Tattinger, one of the most respectable Champagne houses acquired land just outside Faversham in Kent. Planting of vines took place in May 2017, followed by Champagne Pommery launching its first English sparkling wine, made in partnership with Hattingley Valley in Hampshire. 

Over the last five years, UK production has been consistently ⅔ sparkling and ⅓ still, with 80% of plantings coming from Champagne varietals. To put in context, in the UK we produce 12 million bottles a year, Dom Perignon alone produces roughly 5 million, and it is this scarcity that contributes to the high price point of English wine. 

The question is: could the finest English sparkling match the quality and prestige of Champagne? 

Nyetimber Classic Cuveé, West Sussex

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‘Nyetimber is possibly the most famous of all the English sparkling wine producers, largely because of the reputation they built up on the first wines they made in the early 1990s. These were the first bottles that made people realise that English sparkling wine wasn’t just good: it could be world class.’ Dr Jamie Goode 

The Nyetimber effect actually traces back to an anglophile couple from Chicago, Sandy and Stuart Moss who knew little about winemaking. In the 1980s, they spotted a gap in quality sparkling wine. After investing in a hugely professional operation with premium style exclusivity as focus, their first wine made from Chardonnay planted in 1988 and made in 1992, won best sparkling wine in England. Their second, a blend of all three classic grapes from 1993, won best non-champagne sparkling wine in the world at the International Wine & Spirit Competition in 1998. The couple returned to the US in 2001, and Nyetimber has since had two changes in ownership and management. 

Under the stewardship of Eric Heerema, Cherie Spriggs at Nyetimber was the first non-Champenois and woman winemaker to win the prestigious ‘Sparkling Winemaker of the Year’ award at the International Wine Challenge 2018. Hence, the Nyetimber range has become a benchmark for English sparkling the world over.  

Nowadays, Nyetimber owns more vines than most of the major label Champagne houses. They are able to source vastly contrasting parcels of fruit in producing as many as 115 batches of base wine across their three county holdings. This advantage enables multi-vintage blending to create a consistent ‘house style’, which is common practice for the established Champagne houses across the Channel.

The Classic Cuveé is the flagship multi-vintage blend with mostly Chardonnay, followed by Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. If you want to know the precise details, look at the back label and you will find a very long number in the bottom left corner. On its website, you could submit that to reveal a precise chronology of each bottle, detailing the important moments of bottling, riddling and disgorging.

With a bouquet of baked apples and toasted brioche, it has balanced acidity with a creamy mouthful and lemon pastry that outshines many non-vintage (NV) Champagne at a similar price point. When stored correctly (on its side, in darkness away from direct light and heat), most NV sparkling wine should continue to evolve with complexity and intensity. It pairs effortlessly with smoked salmon, sushi, oysters, scallops and even asparagus. Serve well chilled. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: On offer at £29.00, down from £42 till 25/06/2024.

Nyetimber Cuveé Chérie Demi-Sec, West Sussex

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It is no coincidence we are recommending two Nyetimber; for the above is a totally different experience. Made with 100% Chardonnay, it’s off dry and yet refreshing. The very fine bubbles offer an inviting biscuity nose followed by lemon zest on the palate. Try it with fruit tarts, custard tarts and Pasteis de nata, Crème Brûlée or strong blue cheeses. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £42.99 or £29.99 Mix Six 

Busi Jacobsohn Blanc de Noirs 2018, East Sussex

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Busi Jacobsohn is a modern fairy tale where Swedish-born Douglas Jacobsohn and his Italian-born wife Susanna Busi fell in love with Blackdorn Farm in Eridge. Across their five hectares, they planted an equal split of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, leaving 20% to Pinot Meunier.

Douglas spent most of his career in the marine insurance business. That perhaps explains his foresight in future-proofing by installing a drainage system beneath their vineyard, helping rainwater run off and letting their prized grapes ripen over the naturally heat-retaining sandstone. 

With the ethos of grower champagnes, they only produce single estate vintage wines not relying on blending to create a house style. 

The 2018 Blanc de Noirs is made with handpicked Pinot Noir (78%) and Pinot Meunier (22%). It is effervescent with balanced red apple acidity and mild toast on the palate. Bone dry with medium finish which is expected to further develop over 3-5 years. Pairs well with creamy crab pasta and Comté; but not Gorgonzola as Susanna advised; and she was absolutely right.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £48.00

Gusbourne 2015 Late Disgorged Brut Reserve, Kent

Image credit: Will Wong

Everything about Gusbourne is premium. Its name is associated with John de Goosebourne’s Appledore estate first mentioned in 1410. South African orthopaedic surgeon Andrew Weeber bought this site in 2003, with their first release in 2010. Nowadays, the company is listed on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM), with Lord Ashcroft as the main shareholder of the Gusbourne Estate. The vines now spread across 60 hectares (150 acres) at Appledore with the winery, and a further 30 hectares (75 acres) in West Sussex near Greenwood.

Gusbourne only produces vintage still and sparkling wines; with no intention of blending. Long lees ageing is the norm that results in softened acidity with added complexity. Their range of sparkling wine is impressive in quality whose unique characters come alive when you have a food pairing seasonal lunch on site. Or you could have a relaxed picnic among the vines.

Our last showcase of the dozen is truly a special occasion gem. First tasted when Laura Rhys offered at the 2022 WineGB tasting, it was once sipped, forever smitten.

63% Chardonnay and 37% Pinot Noir went into this late disgorged marvel. Light gold in colour with a fine mousse and aromas of citrus peel, alongside brioche and biscuit notes. Due to extended lees ageing, the palate is creamy and complex with flavours of buttered toast and delicate spice leading to a long, intense and unforgettable finish. Perfect with roast chicken, seared tuna steaks or rich vegetarian moussaka. 

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £105.00

The Future of English Wine

The quality of English sparkling wine (ESW) is firmly established against their Champagne counterparts. If you were to taste blind, you might surprise yourself to find your favourite pick turn out to be an ESW. However, with the average spend on a bottle of wine being under £7 in the UK, it is highly unlikely that a typical household sees an ESW as part of essential weekly shopping. That takes us to the emerging and ever improving still wines; which form the first two-thirds of this special English Wine Week edition. 

Production volume is minuscule by global standards with export markets still in their infancy. With high labour and production costs, and escalating prime land prices, English wine will never be able to compete with Argentina, Chile or South Africa on price alone. Output has to rise substantially, which again depends on the vintage. In the long run, entry level English still wines might need to find a price point below £15 to entice consumers to give them a try; against the infinite choices from around the world between £8-£15 on the shelves.

Many producers quietly celebrate global warming and climate change as warmer temperatures help their grapes ripen sufficiently to make quality still wines. According to a new report by the World Weather Attrition Group, Britain will increasingly see monsoon-like rains over the next decade, as well as more frequent hail storms and even “mini tornadoes”. UK regions with the highest average temperatures, particularly those in southern and central England, are likely to see the worst storms. These cast an omen for a burgeoning industry about to enter its next critical growth phase. Suddenly, looking after the soil and vines is no longer enough when dealing with climate chaos. Big Data sharing should help collective resilience through mitigation and adaptation strategies. 

Does anyone know the role of AI in viticulture and winemaking in our brave new world of the unknown?

Great Books to Read About English Wine

Vines in a Cold Climate: The People Behind the English Wine Revolution by Henry Jeffreys

Fortnum & Mason Drink Writer of the Year 2024. When was the last time you read a page-turner on wine? This is it. Opinionated but witty. Thoroughly researched without being academic. It is like a friend who’s had too much to drink telling you who’s who and done what. 

The Vineyards of Britain: Cellar Door Adventures with the Best of Britain’s Wines by Ed Dallimore

How did Ed do it? Lost count of how many vineyards are actually featured in this compendium with stunning imagery, lucid and personable writing reflecting thorough research and his empathy with the characters behind the wine labels.

By Will Wong