Glass of Bubbly Fab Four #1 English Sparkling Wine by glassofbubbly

Wine from a small island

English Sparkling Wine

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Glass of Bubbly is back, fizzing with super content! As well as a list of the Gold, Silver and Bronze winners of The World’s Finest Glass of Bubbly 2019, you can celebrate Napoleon’s 250th birthday, the answer to any Champagne question you have had and some of London’s best Sparkling Wine winelists. Oh, and there is some Sekt Appeal as well. Vive L’Emperur!

here remains a fascination, bordering on fandom, about Napoléon Bonaparte 250 years after his birth and almost two centuries after his death. Rheims-based craft Champagne house Frerejean Brother has released its “homage to the great man” who ruled France with “a cuvee worthy of our savoir-faire.” The cuvee is made from 50% Pinot Noir and 50% Chardonnay, all from premier cru vineyards. It has spent five years on lees in the cellar. Once disgorged, the house left it resting for around six months. It is a limited run of 8,000 bottles, all numbered, and

priced at €49 from the vineyard’s website. This Champagne offers aromas of dried fruits, some honey, almonds, with fresh notes of apple and pear, creamy brioche. It is ideal as an aperitif and with aged Iberico ham or risotto. Here’s the thing. The Revolution wasn’t working out too great for France. The beheading of the King was only the beginning of the Robespierre reign of terror. Revolutionary France was an incredibly violent place, and no solid government was able to maintain power. There was a lack of good government, full of corruption and orchestrating more killings. Napoléon was not a violent dictator who killed a beloved group of leaders and gained power.

A Corsican of middle status, the French Revolution allowed him the opportunity to rise up through the ranks of the French army and gain more power that would not have been possible in pre-Revolutionary France. Once he gained power, he restructured the entire country, combining ideals from both the Revolution and the monarchy in order to create a powerful, more unified France. It is this legacy that this wine is celebrating. According to Thomas Jequece, Frerejean Brother marketing and communication manager, almost ten percent of production was sold in little more than two months after release. He says: “For now approximately 700 bottles have been sold but the number is growing day by day. “If we could sell all the bottles for €49 it would be amazing but a lot of them will be sold to worldwide distributors. We won’t get a €400,000 income for this cuvee but we will still obtain a significant share of revenue for our business.” With 30 years of Champagne expertise, the Frerejean Brother team is rooted in the region. That’s why they are “proud to call Avize home.” The company was created in 2005. Founders, Guillaume, Richard and Rodolphe Frerejean-Taittinger, live between Paris and Champagne, with their families. The family has a direct link with Napoleon: they are the latest generation in a line of cannon-makers who supplied the French army defending the region against the Prussians, during the Napoleonic Wars.

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Jequece says: “We are small producers and we are not looking to do millions of bottles, the quality of the grapes we are using (Premier and Grand Cru) have a really small yield and even if we wanted we could not produce as much bottles. “We are a niche house looking to provide the best wine of Champagnes we could craft to the consumers and to give them transparent cuvees, low dosage, a long aging in cellar, late disgorgement.” Most of wine sold so far has been in Australasia and France. The Frerejean Brothers developed this cuvee along with the largest association relating to Napoléon Bonaparte, Le Souvenir Napoléonien. Among its members are the heirs of Joachim Murat and Napoléon Bonaparte who agreed to let the house to develop this cuvee in partnership with the Association, allowing it to be enjoyed by history lovers and collectors. As this a limited edition, the brothers will sell it for no more than two years. That is why Jequece hope that all bottles will be sold from this year to end of the next one. In addition, the brothers also launched 38 Jéroboams (3 litres - 100% chardonnay - Blanc de Blancs) of the cuvee.

TRAVEL

An appetite for St Emilion RestauRant Review

WITH torrential rain and the pool out of action, we looked further afield for some entertainment. Saint Emilion did just that, so much so that we went three times that week. On one of the visits, our group of 10 had the pleasure of eating at Logis de la Cadène.

For the main course, again we had fish, but I was thrilled to see a bottle of red making its way around the table. And what a phenomenal pairing. We had pan fried Hake with potatoes done four ways – With its one Michelin star and foamed, crushed, mashed, being owned by the Boüard and tiny crispy curls. And truffle everywhere. de Laforest family living in nearby Château Angélus I don’t mean it was too much, since 2013, we couldn’t resist I just mean it really wasn’t a the wine pairing with the token shaving; you couldn’t Menu du Jour. After some mini delights of fois gras balls miss that this dish really showcased the truffles. Possibly it and garlic flower and was this truffle element that cauliflower puree cups, we made the pairing with Chawere presented with a wonderfully colourful bowl of teau Bellevue Grand Cru white fish ceviche with bright Classé 2012 seem so natural. radish and carrot salad, on Many people wouldn’t put celeriac espuma decorated red wine with fish, but such an with edible flowers. earthy flavour lent itself well to the pairing with this mediThis was paired with um bodied wine that opened Château Bel Air la Royère Blanc 2018. It had citrus and up from peppery notes to give chocolate and plum apricots coming through to give a bright and fruity wine, flavours with earthy under-

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tones. Sadly no wine with pudding but a double espresso helped us finish our picture-perfect fig cream and sponge slice, with fresh fig and fig leaf ice cream, and gave us enough energy to remove ourselves from the stunning private dining room and back out for more wine tasting! One on my list for next time I come back, as the Menu du Jour rarely the same – Chef Baumard is a real talent, and the restaurant itself inviting and cosy with an exceptional level of service.

Champagne Armand de Brignac debuts Blanc de Noirs Assemblage

The iconic champagne brand, owned by Shawn ‘JAY-Z’ Carter, announces the UK release of its rarest cuvée

points from Decanter Magazine. Only 3,535 bottles of Armand de Brignac Blanc de Noirs A3 were created for the world, disgorged on April 9, 2019 after resting on lees for six years. Produced by 13th-generation champagne growers, the Cattier family, the cuvée is made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes carefully sourced Armand de Brignac announces the UK from some of the best Pinot Noir producarrival of its Blanc de Noirs Assemblage ing Three (A3), the third assemblage of its villages in the Montagne de Reims includultra-prestige cuvée. The highly-anticipated ing Bouzy, Verzenay, Chigny-les-Roses, debut follows the inaugural blend, awardLudes and Rilly-la-Montagne. ed #1 Blanc de Noirs champagne in the A winemaking signature of all the Armand world in 2016, following a blind tasting of de Brignac champagnes, only the very first 250 cuvées as part of the annual rankings and freshest portion of the cuvée press is by FINE Champagne Magazine and used to create the Blanc de Noirs A3, and Tastingbook.com, and the Blanc de Noirs a trio of vintages (2009, 2010, 2012) create Assemblage Two (A2), which received 96 more depth and character than a singular

Champagne

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Free download from

which was light enough not to overpower the delicate fish dish.

red fruit with notes of strawberry, blackberry, blackcurrant, pastry, cherry and plum. Hints of lemon and walnut create a complex wine with elegant freshness while kindling aromas of chocolate, blackcurrant and pepper provide extraordinary length. “We first released a Blanc de Noirs in 2015, almost exactly one year after our owner acquired the brand”, says Sebastien Besson, CEO, Armand de Brignac. “The first release of this extraordinarily rare cuvée, was the result of our winemakers’ first ever attempt to create a 100% Pinot Noir prestige champagne. We are fortunate to have achieved exceptional critical acclaim for both the first and second assemblages of Blanc de Noirs, and having tasted the A3 with our winemakers, we are confident it is perfect and ready for release now, and will certainly not disappoint.” “Because of the power that comes from using 100% red fruit, it can be challenging to achieve a balanced Blanc de Noirs,” says Chef de Cave, Jean-Jacques Cattier. “Because we do not have any pressure to create volume, we are able to be extremely selective. Using small parcels of only the very best Pinot Noir, we’re able to meticulously balance the acidity and sugar, achieving a Blanc de Noirs with integrity to the powerful style, but with balance and elegance,” he adds. “The Blanc de Noirs A3 is an extraordinarily gourmet wine with richness, intensity and length but it is not too heavy, as some can be,” Cattier notes. “This wine is in harmony with its duality; think sugar and salt pairings with spice, richness, and sweetness. Pair this cuvée with Foie Gras, tagine of lamb or a roast chicken with cranberry sauce.” Every bottle of Armand de Brignac Blanc de Noirs A3 is inscribed with its

Camilla Jennings of Jenkyn Place vineyard in southern England recently packed a bag for a trip to Bordeaux for a friend’s wedding that proved somewhat wetter than planned.

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vintage expression. Fruit reigns supreme in this cuvée, chiefly from the 2012, which is the principal part of the blend. 2012 was an exceptional vintage that is at its peak now, and brings wonderful complexity, red fruits and notes of butter to the A3. The 2009 gives intensity and richness, while the 2010 provides structure and good balance. Altogether, this trio produces a whole far greater than the sum of its parts, a bouquet that is rich and complex with notes of apricot, blackberry and gingerbread. The wine opens luminously, complemented with elegant touches of white flowers, light tobacco, chocolate, strawberries, plum and orange blossom. On the palate, vibrant

unique nuuber (1 to 3,535), in addition to its disgorgement date, showcasing the rarity, exclusi ty and collectability of this ultra-prestige cuvée. As a signature mark of all Armand de Brignac cuvées, each dark metalized bottle of Blanc de Noirs A3 is finished by hand with the application of a French pewter label and a final hand polishing before being placed in a handcrafted wooden lacquered gift box. A highly-trained team of just 18 craftspeople touch each bottle throughout the process from pressing the fruit to departure from the cellars in France. A highly-limited number of bottles of Armand de Brignac Blanc de Noirs Assemblage Three were launched exclusively at Harrods, available for purchase from 16th September 2019. The Champagne Armand de Brignac collection is available in limited quantities around the world and is comprised of Gold Brut, Rosé, Demi Sec, and the ultra-prestige single varietals, the Blanc de Blancs and Blanc de Noirs. 750ml RRP: £1,095

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EDITOR’S LETTER E njoy this first of four special supplements that look at the major Sparkling Wine varieties. If you know English Sparkling Wine, I hope this expands your love and knowledge. If you are new to the wine, please treat this as an open door to one of the world’s most promising wine regions and the beginning of a great adventure in a glass.

Where do the Welsh fit in? The principality has quietly over the last two decades enhanced its worldwide reputation for rugby and choral singing by planting and tending a small but vibrant wine industry producing award-winning wine worthy of the Welsh dragon flag. There are interesting plans afoot to create a specific Welsh language version of Sparkling Wine, akin to the German word ‘Sekt’ or ‘Champagne’ itself. It is an early stage and Glass of Bubbly will work in its pages to support the name once it is settled on. Hwyl fawr!

Pop your cork

If you are new to English Sparkling Wine, take a look at Page 8 and our report on WineGB’s extraordinary report on the sheer growth of English wine in general, which has a direct knock-on for production of English Sparkling Wine. The UK wine industry is proving to be one of the fastest expanding wine regions in the world after seeing the biggest planting of vines on record this year. This success story is echoed in world-beating wines that are increasingly beating the established sparkling wine producers and being seen in all the best places. Cheers.

James Graham, Editor

@GoBmagfizz

PS. Our next Fab Four supplment will be in March. ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE - GLASS of BUBBLY 3

Learn the Five Sâ€™s of Wine Tasting 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

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EDITORIAL

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inside

EDITOR’S LETTER

ENGLISH vs BRITISH

BALFOUR HUSH HEATH TRIO

RECORD PLANTING

OPENING THE BOTTLE

CHAMPAGNE’S ENGLISH ROOTS

GREYFRAIRS’ XMAS FIZZ

WALES SPECIAL: WELCOME

WALES SPECIAL: FAMILY AFFAIR

SOCIAL MEDIA Catherine Thomas

PRODUCTION Alex Brown

CONTRIBUTORS Sarah Gillam Ryan Mounsey Christopher Walkey BRAND AMBASSADORS Fran Bridgewater Nathan Meyers All rights reserved, No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without prior permission in writing from the copyright owner. Multiple copying of the contents of the magazine without prior written Material sent to the editor, whether commissioned or freely submitted, is provided at the contributor’s own risk. Glass of Bubbly cannot be held responsible for loss of damage however cause. The opinions and views expressed by authors and contributors within Glass of Bubbly magazine are not necessarily those of the editor or Glass of Bubbly. We are unable to guarantee the bona ideas of any advertisers. © G+Wmedia 2019 Registered Office: Glass Of Bubbly Limited C/O (Your OK Limited) 6 Queen Street Coggeshall Colchester Essex CO6 1UF United Kingdom

Elegant sparkling wines.

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LA VIE ENGLISH SPARKLING OUTPERFORMING CHAMPAGNE AT COURT

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BOND IN THE VINEYARD

WINE FROM A SCEPTER’D ISLE

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OPENING THE BOTTLE

VINEYARD DIRECTORY

www.RAIMES.co.uk ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE - GLASS of BUBBLY 5

ENGLISH vs BRITISH

IN global terms, English Sparkling Wines are produced by an industry that is barely off the nursery slopes. Despite that, it is punching above its weight. It is more in the spotlight as it takes on the best in the world. However, like in the worst Victorian melodrama, there is a dissolute, embarrassing uncle who insists on turning up and gate-crashing the swankiest of events. ‘British wine’ is truly the ghost at the feast for English and Welsh wine makers. While the threat of confusion between British and English wine is not what it was as English wine puts its head above the parapet, some explanation is needed for those who have just come to the delights of English wine. The term ‘British wine’ is used to describe a drink made in Britain by the fermentation of grape, or any other fruit, juice or concentrate originating from anywhere in the world. It cannot be used for ‘wine’ in a legal sense, which must be produced from freshly pressed grapes. The most common style is a medium or sweet high-strength wine that is similar to sherry, formerly known as British Sherry. This cheap drink has traction with drinkers in times of austerity. Millions of bottles are sold through supermarkets and corner shops. The discount industry turns over more than £240 million a year, undercutting English producers by importing grape must from cheap wine producing regions in countries including Spain, Romania and Bulgaria. English wines are cultivated on vineyards in Britain, where temperate conditions and fertile soils produce a crop rivalling the finest vines in Burgundy, a bottle of British wine 6

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begins life under remarkably different circumstances. Industry observers consider there is a chance that foreign buyers and the unwitting will not be able to distinguish between high quality wine and the imported liquids. Transported in industrial shipping containers containing up to 20,000 litres of low-grade concentrate, the ingredients for British wines are shipped to harbours on the south coast, such as Shoreham, Sussex, for delivery to factory-sized fermenting plants. With some lines selling for as little as £2.49 per bottle, cheap brands – such as Silver Bay Point, Three Mills and Baywood label – have soared in popularity in recent years. Although the legal definition of wine requires producers to use freshly crushed grapes during the fermentation process, EU law allows British wine to be produced with grape must – a process that is not recognised outside of the Common Market. The process is accepted under Common Agricultural Policy, allowing producers of British wine to use the composite name for their products. The EU directive also allows English and Welsh producers to label their product's country of origin, similar to the designation given to Champagne and Burgundy. These ‘imposter’ wines are always still wines so as such sparkling wine produced in this country has nothing to fear. That said, vineyards that produce sparkling and still do have concerns. The growing strength and brand recognition of English wine may at last be silencing that awkward uncle in the corner of the room.

Sparkling wine in Balfou making trio’s new range A

s the 2019 harvest swung into action, and with the ‘coming of age’ of English wines, Kentbased producers Hush Heath Estate, known for its award-winning Balfour wines, launched a unique series of Winemaker exclusives. The Winemakers’ Collection is three limited edition wines, including one sparkling, created as individual expressions of the styles and passions of the vineyard’s winemaking trio: Head Winemaker Victoria Ash, assistant winemaker Fergus Elias and Hush Heath’s consultant Owen Elias. Ready in time for the Christmas market, these wines have the added bonus of strikingly abstract labels, specially commissioned from well-known contemporary British artist Keith Coventry and reflecting the Balfour-Lynn family’s love of the arts. Victoria Ash’s Blanc de Blancs is a 100% Chardonnay from the 2012 and 2013 vintages, barrel fermented, and matured in French oak for twelve months. With zero dosage, it is believed to be the first of its kind in England. Victoria comments: “For me it is the

Chardonnay that really typifies the Hush Heath Estate, bringing forward herbaceous tones and powerful saline notes. These grapes come from specific blocks of very special vines. “From my experiences in New Zealand, it was an exciting opportunity to put some of our best Chardonnay juice into old French Oak, and create a completely different style for the winery.” Fergus Elias went for something entirely different. This Septered Isle 2018 – a play on the French word for seven – is a still white made from the seven permitted grape varieties used in Champagne. Meanwhile, Fergus’ father Owen has created The Red Miller 2018, a still red from a single plot of exceptionally ripe Pinot Meunier – usually the ‘quiet partner’ in a classic sparkling blend. Commenting on this exclusive collection, and the idea behind it, Hush Heath Estate owner Leslie Balfour-Lynn said: “Art and wine have been closely connected throughout history and in our tasting room at Hush Heath Estate we have

Fox & Fox Midnight Dark Dry Rosé Brut 2011. Visit our website to shop or find our more about our highly-awarded range of delicious English Sparkling Wines.

www.foxandfox.wine 8

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ur Hush Heath winee of exclusive wines wonderful art and sculptures on display. “It thus seemed appropriate to create labels designed by one of my favourite British artists, Keith Coventry to celebrate the unique nature of our three Winemaker’s wines.” Victoria Ash Blanc de Blancs rrp £80. The wine are available via the Hush Heath website shop and through exclusive listings in the UK licenced trade.

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Cheers! A record 3m vines planted in England and Wales

he UK wine industry is proving to be one of the fastest expanding wine regions in the world after seeing the biggest planting of vines on record this year. The industry’s trade body Wines of Great Britain (WineGB) released planting figures in May confirming that around three million vines were planted this year – equating to an additional 690 hectares of vineyards and a 24% increase in the overall land now under vine. This is nearly double that planted last year (1.6 million vines) and three times the one million vines planted in 2017, making the wine industry one of the fastest-growing agricultural sectors in the UK. Whilst much of the planting has taken place in counties of South East of England (Kent, Sussex and Hampshire) the spread of vines includes Gloucestershire, Northamptonshire, Devon, Somerset, Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and Wales – showing the ongoing expansion of wine production right across the UK. “This impressive figure of 3m vines represents another milestone in the growth of our fantastic industry,” comments Simon Robinson, Chairman of WineGB. “Last year we set out our vision that in the next 20 years, at the rate of current growth, we could be producing some 40 million bottles per year. “We’re certainly heading towards that. This is a thriving British industry.”

Then-Food Minister David Rutley said: “Our wine makers are innovative, creative and determined, so it’s no surprise that we are seeing the fruits of their labour now shining on the world stage. “I will continue to champion our innovative food and drink businesses, and I look forward to seeing more of our stand-out wines in restaurants and on shelves the world over.” These growth figures come off the back of the UK’s most successful vintage last year, following the superb summer and harvest of 2018 which yielded some 15.6 million bottles, smashing the production figure which up until then averaged at around 5½ million bottles. This all comes at a time when English and Welsh wines are enjoying wider popularity in the UK, with most supermarkets now stocking home-grown wines as well as featuring on restaurant and retailer lists around the country. Wine tourism is also providing a popular pastime, with some 200 vineyards open to the public across the country. Another reason for celebration is the recent raft of noteworthy successes achieved by English and Welsh wines in the major international competitions so far this year, proving that they are very much on the world stage in competing against their peers. “There’s plenty for us to celebrate this year,” summarises Simon. “We’ll certainly raise a glass or two to that!”

UK is now one of the world’s fastest-growing wine regions

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OPENING THE BOTTLE

THE LATEST ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE NEWS

Camel Valley partnership helps keep helicopter flying CORNISH producer Camel Valley recently marked another milestone in their support for the Cornwall Air Ambulance by donating £2,270, bringing their total donations over the years to over £23,000. The Bodmin-based vineyard and winery has been supporting Cornwall Air Ambulance for more than nine years, raising vital funds from their popular vineyard tours.

Camel Valley’s Laura Bartlett, Bob Lindo, Jack Jackson and Jess Brown with cheque

Vineyard founder Bob Lindo, owner of Camel Valley vineyard, said: “My daughter Esther was taken to Treliske in the Cornwall Air Ambulance; last year we marked the hundredth rescue, for which we paid for the fuel. “This year we concentrated on the New Heli Appeal. I’ve been rescued by helicopter myself and it’s not a trip I’d like to repeat!” ENGLISH wine trade body WineGB welcomed the interest shown by MPs in some form of support for smaller vineyards and actively encouraged its members to contact their MPs to highlight the application made on the industry’s behalf to HM Treasury last December. WineGB believes the scheme proposed would also satisfy EU and WTO rules on state aid for industry while also enhancing the total revenue raised by HMRC. The proposed cellar door relief scheme for wine producers would apply only to wine sales direct to consumers at the cellar door.

LONDON-based English wine specialists and experts The Wine Pantry has partnered with Jimmy’s Lodge to allow lovers of English Sparkling Wine to enjoy the “ultimate English wine experience in one of five private snow globes on the Southbank.” Nathan Meyers says: “Situated in a magical river-side spot along the Queen’s Walk on the Southbank, we’re offering you the perfect location to soak up the festive atmosphere and magnificent panoramic views of stretches of London’s riverside.” Weekdays in November and December on a group rate of £750 for ten.

FOR those keen to serve an English bubbly this year, Aldi’s Angel and Four Masterstroke (£10) scored 70%. according to Which? magazine. Made in Gloucestershire, the English fizz delivers a “distinct aroma of elderflower”, and most of the panel enjoyed its zesty sweetness. PLUMPTON College near Brighton, the UK’s centre of excellence in wine education, training and research is set to launch the UK’s first nationwide Viticulture apprenticeship. ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE - GLASS of BUBBLY 11

Christopher Merre English beginning O

n 17 December 1662, just two years after the restoration of the British monarchy and the banishing of state-imposed Puritanism, Merrett presented a paper on winemaking before the newly-formed Royal Society. In ‘Some observations concerning the ordering of wines,’ he succinctly describes the process of making sparkling wine: ‘Our Wine-coopers of latter times use vast quantities of Sugar and Melosses [molasses] to all sorts of Wines, to make them drink brisk [frothy] and sparkling’.

The mysterie of vintners Merrett was describing the ‘second fermentation’ process where, after an initial fermentation, sugar is again added to the bottle, giving the wine naturally produced bubbles. This second fermentation had sometimes happened accidently to the wines produced in the Champagne region: cold weather occasionally stopped fermentation, which began again in spring as the temperature rose. If this happened, the wine bottles often exploded under the pressure, causing havoc in the cellars. According to Merrett, English winemakers and importers were, for the first time, intentionally adding bubbles, aided by the development of thicker, more durable glass able to withstand the effervescence. Christopher Merrett was one of a group of 17th century gentleman scientists, nobleman and polymaths who established the Royal Society. Merrett was born in 1614 in Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, and studied medicine at Oxford, gaining his Bachelor of Medicine degree in June 1636. He settled in London in 1640 and began to practise as a physician. In 1651, he became a Royal College of Physicians fellow and in 1654 was the Goulstonian lecturer. In the same year, he was nominated by his Oxford friend, William Harvey (1578–1657), as the first keeper of the library and museum, a live-in, rent-free appointment at the College’s house at 12

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Englishman Christopher Merrett (1614–1695), a founder fellow of the Royal Society, originally described the distinctive ‘méthode champenoise’ several years before the monk Dom Pérignon began his experiments at the Abbey at Hautvillers. Sarah Gillam, assistant editor, Munk’s Roll Amen Corner. Merrett went on to write the first catalogue, printed in 1660. Merrett was also a member of the ‘Invisible College’, a precursor of the Royal Society, which was formed around the year 1645. At their weekly meetings in London, as one of their number later remembered, they discussed ‘Philosophical Inquiries, and such as related thereunto; as Physick, Anatomy, Geometry, Astronomy, Navigation, Staticks, Mechanicks, and Natural Experiments.’ Some of the group’s members later formed the Oxford Philosophical Society. After the Restoration, many returned to London, continued their discussions and experiments, and decided to establish a formal group. At a meeting

ett and the very gs of Champagne Sprat describes one of the Society’s first means of collecting information – sending questionnaires to contacts, usually traders and their agents, at home and abroad, some of which he published in his book. Merrett was then one of several fellows who were busy adding to ‘knowledge’ by documenting histories of trades and industries: in June 1664, he was appointed as chairman of the Royal Society’s new official committee for the history of trades. Some six years after Merrett’s report, Pierre Pérignon was appointed as the cellar master at Hautvillers, and was given the task of improving the quality of the wine made in the abbey’s vineyards, including finding ways of preventing the formation of bubbles. It wasn’t until the 18th century that the English taste for sparkling wines spread to France. Following the death of Louis XIV in 1715, the new regent, Philippe II, Duke of Orléans, sparked a craze for the sparkling version of champagne; winemakers in the Champagne region began to produce fizzy wine in response and went on to create a hugely successful industry. Not for the last time an English innovation led to commercial success elsewhere. at Gresham College in November 1660, Merrett was one of 40 men who were proposed to become founder fellows of the ‘Royal Society of London for Improving Natural Knowledge’. Merrett quickly became an active member of the new society. Papers he wrote – including subjects as diverse as Lincolnshire, tin mining in Cornwall and the art of refining – reflect the Royal Society’s original extensive remit of gathering information on all knowledge. Thomas Sprat, a fellow who wrote the Royal Society’s first history in 1667, described the society’s aims as ‘to make faithful Records, of all the Works of Nature, or Art, which can come within their reach’. Sprat acknowledged their debt to commerce: of the groups he describes who gave ‘incouragements’ to the Society, he lists merchants first. They ‘have assisted it with their presence: and thereby have added the industrious, punctual, and active Genius of men of Traffick, to the quiet, sedentary, and reserv’d temper of men of learning.’

Gone flat After a sparkling beginning, Merrett’s own career fell flat. During the plague of 1665, he escaped the city. While absent, thieves broke in and the College’s treasure chest, containing cash and other valuables, was emptied. Merrett returned, but shortly after another disaster occurred – the Great Fire of London. He managed to save some of the most valuable books, but the College’s building (and library) was lost. With no library to oversee, the College decided it did not need a keeper. This he vehemently disputed. After several court cases, the College decided to take away his fellowship, ostensibly as he had failed to attend a meeting to which he had been summoned. Four years later, the Royal Society also expelled him for being in arrears with his subscriptions. Article courtesy of Royal College of Physicians Museum

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GREYFRIARS XMAS GIFTS FOR FIZZ LOVERS T wo new gift sets from Surrey producer of English wine Greyfrairs Vineyard will not only fill the Christmas stocking but the glass too. Choose from a bottle of Greyfriars Vineyard Limited Edition Blanc de Noirs NV or a bottle of Greyfriars Vineyard award-winning 2014 Sparkling Rosé Reserve. Both are accompanied by two Greyfriars branded sparkling wine flutes and presented in a beautiful gift box. The Blanc de Noirs is the second edition to Greyfriars’ Prestige Cuvée range, the first was the 2015 Cuvée Royale released in

2018. Limited edition, only 3,800 individually numbered bottles have been made of the Blanc de Noirs. Greyfriars’ owner and winemaker Mike Wagstaff says: “It’s been an exceptional year for Greyfriars and we wanted to celebrate this with our customers by creating these gifts for Christmas. “Our first ever Blanc de Noirs was launched this spring and is drinking beautifully right now and we were over the moon that our 2014 vintage Sparkling Rosé Reserve was recognised so highly this year. “Rather than just sell the wine by the bottle, we have presented these wines with two monogrammed flutes in an elegant gift box so when the wine has been drunk the recipient still has a keepsake of their favourite English sparkling wine.” Greyfriars Vineyard Limited Edition Blanc de Noirs NV with

IN our forthcoming Fab Four supplements, we will be looking at the other three great sparkling wine varieties.

Fab Four #2

Prosecco March, 2020

two flutes presented in a gift box, priced £44.99. Greyfriars Vineyard award-winning 2014 Sparkling Rosé Reserve with two flutes presented in a gift box, priced £39.99. Greyfriars Vineyard is a range of sparkling and still boutique English wines of world-class quality, made by Mike and Hilary Wagstaff and a small team on the North Downs in Surrey. The vineyards span 40 acres over two sites with 52,000 vines. The facilities include a state-of-the-art winery, chalk underground cellar and outdoor amphitheatre, shop and tasting facilities. Greyfriars does everything from grape-to-glass and only makes wine with its own estate grown fruit. All aspects of production from grape growing to winemaking to direct sales take place on site.

Fab Four #3 Cava May, 2020

Fab Four #4 Champagne July, 2020

For editorial and advertising enquires, please contact: james.graham@glassofbubbly.com ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE - GLASS of BUBBLY 15

By Ryan Mounsey

The Keep at Cardiff Castle

We’ll keep a welcome in the vineyard SPARKLING WINE IN WALES

IF you were asked to hazard a guess as to which re- sparkling. However, in terms of quality, Welsh spargion in the United Kingdom was home to the first kling wine has a proven track record of competing commercial vineyard, I’d wager that the majority if on the international stage that belies its stature. For not all of you would say, the South East of England. Readers might be surprised to find that not only had they suggested the wrong region but also the wrong country altogether! The actual answer is South Wales where, in 1875, Castell Coch was planted under the instruction of the Marquis of Bute. Far from being the folly of an eccentric aristocrat, the initial three acre planting grew to 13 acres over two separate sites and by 1893 was producing a respectable 12,000 bottles a year.The end came with the advent of the First World White Castle vineyard War which made sugar for fermentation impossible to example in 2012, Ancre Hill of Monmouthshire won come by. the prestigious Bollicine del Mondo, when their Nowadays, there are 2008 sparkling white was voted the best sparkling approximately 30 Welsh wine in the world, while Gwinllan Conwy’s ‘Pefriog’ vineyards continuing Cas(Welsh for ‘sparkling’) white achieved a silver medal tell Coch’s legacy, with a in the 2017 International Wine Challenge Awards. total of over 60 hectares Perhaps the single distinguishing feature of Welsh under vine, equating to less sparkling wines is the absence of a single distinthan 2% of the total for guishing feature! While the majority of English Great Britain, but rapidly expanding. In almost direct Sparkling Wine comes from traditional varieties planted in the South East and East, with much being contrast to the English wine industry, approximately made of the similarity of the chalky soils to those found in the Champagne region, Welsh vineyards 70% of the grapes grown are spread more evenly across the Principality. in Wales are used to make still wine with only 30% Reaching all four corners of Wales these vinegoing to the production of yards encompass a diverse range of soils and 16

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Tintern Parva vineyard climates, each imparting a subtly different flavour. The range of grapes used across Wales also results in a unique drinking experience being presented by each vineyard. From the ten or so vineyards that currently produce sparkling wine in Wales a total of as many different grape varieties are used. These include the traditional champagne varietals as well as some lesser known hybrids which thrive in cool climate regions. Ancre Hills uses Chardonnay and Pinot Noir but also Triomphe in its sparkling wine range. The sparkling rosé offering of Tintern Parva vineyard in the south east of the country is made from 100% Pinot Noir, whereas their Robb Merchant, white sparkling named ‘Dathliad’ (left), chairman (meaning ‘celebration’) which in 2016 won best Welsh wine, of the Welsh is made from Seyval Blanc and Vineyards Association Continues over

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SPARKLING WINE IN WALES Huxelrebe. Velfrey Vineyard in Pembrokeshire will use Seyval Blanc and Pinot Noir for white and rosé sparkling wines, beginning with grapes from its first harvest taken in 2019.

ethliw, near Aberaeron in Ceredigion, West Wales, opts for Orion and Regent for it sparkling offerings, with their 2014 scooping the best white sparkling wine in Wales for 2019.

The award winning Pefriog from Gwinllan Conwy on the north coast is made from the Solaris grape and aged for only a few months on the lees to preserve its crispness and exotic fruit notes.

The current cream of the crop however, comes courtesy of Montgomery Vineyard whose 2017 sparkling rosé was crowned the best overall wine in Wales 2019. Llanerch Vineyard near Cardiff not only makes some excellent wines, winning in both the white and rosé sparkling classes at the Welsh wine awards in 2018, but is also home to the UK’s first vineyard hotel.

Phoenix and Seyval Blanc make up the sparkling white wine of Whitecastle Vineyard, Monmouthshire, home of Robb Merchant, chairman of the Welsh Vineyards Association while Carmarthenshire vineyard Jabajak uses Seyval Blanc and Phoenix tinted with Rondo for its Blush Sparkling. Glyndwr in the Vale of Glamorgan uses Seyval Blanc and Triomphe d’Alsace while the delightfully named Sugarloaf Vineyard near Abergavenny also uses Seyval Blanc. Lla-

Whilst still a fledgling region, particularly in relation to sparkling wine, there are clearly exciting times ahead for the Welsh wine industry.

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SPARKLING WINE IN WALES

A family affair in Welsh wine By Ryan Mounsey

FIONA and Andy Mounsey moved into their smallholding near Lampeter Velfrey in Pembrokeshire in 2014, and began converting it into a vineyard for the production of sparkling wine in 2016. They were soon joined in the venture by their son Ryan, who is now a director of the company and day-to-day manager of the enterprise. This article is Ryan’s take on his parents’ madcap scheme.

These are exciting times for Velfrey Vineyard. Planted in 2017, we are one of a handful of new vineyards to recently have been established in Wales, and following our first harvest this October, we will soon be in full production. Our story differs from the majority of other such enterprises in Wales where owners have usually either taken over an existing vineyard or held a long term dream of setting one up. For us, neither was true. The property we moved into in 2014 came with roughly seven acres of severely neglected land and the thought of owning a vineyard had never crossed our minds. In fact, the first time I suggested it, the response could best be described as one of puzzled bemusement! However, a short-lived venture into livestock farming brought us to the realisation that keeping a small flock of sheep was a

“grow what you like to drink, and then you’ll be able to sell it”

very time-consuming but efficient way of losing money (and, occasionally, losing sheep too!) So after the idea was rekindled following a pleasant and surprising visit to a local restaurant with its own vineyard, and the subsequent expert confirmation that our site was practically perfect for the planting of vines, we embarked on establishing our vineyard in Pembrokeshire, West Wales. The second difference we have with the rest of the Welsh vineyard sector is the fact that we have chosen to specialise in the production of sparkling wine; yet, this too was not initially our intention. The advice we had been given on variety selection was “Grow what you like to drink, and then you’ll be able to sell it” and the quality of the Welsh and English wine that we tasted meant there was no shortage of varieties we could have planted. Our first thought was to try and cater for everyone and provide something for all tastes: red, white and rosé, still and sparkling. This is what has been done across the country with growing success and across many of the vineyards of a comparable size in England. However, this is not a scenario that you witness elsewhere in the most renowned Continues over ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE - GLASS of BUBBLY 19

SPARKLING WINE IN WALES

Fiona, Ryan (centre) and Andy Mounsey

wine growing areas across the world. Regions and vineyards are predominantly known for a certain limited selection of grapes and wine styles; focussing on what they’re good at and perfecting it. So we took the decision that, given the growing recognition and undoubted quality of English Sparkling Wine, we would focus solely on producing a Welsh equivalent. To that end we decided to plant only two varieties in our first parcel, Seyval Blanc and Pinot Noir, used to produce a sparkling white and sparkling rosé. The Seyval makes a lovely

“we decided to plant only two varieties in our first parcel, Seyval Blanc and Pinot Noir”

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base to sparkling wine, with the traditional Champagne variety Pinot Noir adding a depth of flavour to proceedings as well as a blush to the rosé. Both varieties are also later ripening, which allows them to make use of the long growing seasons we have in the UK and fully develop their complexity. Following a year of preparation involving clearing the scrub from the field that had been untouched for roughly 20 years, draining and mole ploughing to remove water from the site and subsoiling, ploughing and harrowing to prepare a deep tilth, we were ready to plant. The initial 3,500 vines, consisting of 3,100 Seyval Blanc and 400 Pinot Noir, went in on May 4 2017 and they were subsequently joined by a further 50 Pinot Noir and 400 Solaris, planted in 2018. The sole focus of the next two growing seasons was to produce strong and healthy plants with a nice deep root system to fully express the characteristics of our

Welsh vineyard listings page 40

SPARKLING WINE IN WALES soil. This involved selecting and nurturing a central cane and removing any inflorescences so that energy resources were not diverted from this essential growth. Then, in 2019 we could switch our attentions to the production of fruit, and by October we had a small first crop ready for harvest. The grapes were sent to our contract winemaker and here they will go through the traditional method of sparkling wine production, spending at least 12 months on the lees before they are ready for sale. Finally, by early 2021 (by which time we will already have taken our second grape harvest), our first batch of Welsh Sparkling Wine will be available. It’s been a long journey, and we cannot wait to taste the fruits of our labours. We’ve already designed our brand logo reflecting the rich Pembrokeshire heritage of our site, and have sold several cases of the first vintage on pre-order.

We’re welcoming visitors and volunteers onto the vineyard, and the enthusiasm for this venture, which still has a novelty value on our far-flung corner of Wales, is palpable. We’re looking forward to welcoming travellers from some of the many cruise liners which call into local ports as the vineyard has been accepted onto the list of shore excursions being offered to passengers from the USA, Canada, Australia and beyond. Interest has also extended to local and national press, a number of appearances on local and BBC national radio, and an invitation to discuss tourism on BBC television. It’s quite an adventure for people who could be described as ‘accidental viticulturalists’ (or, less kindly, failed shepherds!) Exciting times indeed!

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La Vie en Eng Homme Hambledon: Didier Pierson

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ON 8 April 1904, a series of agreements between England and France known as the Entente cordiale were signed. The agreements served to formalise the more informal entente cordiale (French for â€œwarm understandingâ€?) that had existed between England and France during the nineteenth century and paved the way for the British and French to join forces against German aggression during World War I. As the ink dried, glasses of Champagne, a great favourite with the famously fun-loving King Edward VII, were filled and then toasted. This was a one-sided celebration as English Sparking Wine did not then exist. Fast forward 115 years and it would be a completely different story. English Sparkling Wine at its best can now vie with the best of Champagne.

glish Sparkling Wine Now, this entente cordiale has extended to sparkling wine. Frenchman Didier Pierson is the perfect example of how the two nations now regard the other’s sparkling wine. In 2003, the winemaker tasted his first English Sparkling Wine. The aged 37, he thought the first were very basic. “Except Ridgeview who was I think the best English sparkling wine at that time,” says Didier. He had heard about English wine from friends and on visits to the UK. “I was obviously curious as a Champagne maker and wanted to know more about English vineyards and wines,” he says.

finesse and very elegant. “Acidity is a bit higher than other sparking wines, that is to me what makes English sparkling wine unique.” As an important presence at the Hampshire vineyard and winery, Didier enjoys a taste of ESW when he has free time or is with friends. Naturally, Glass of Bubbly asked him for his favoutite Albion tipples. He says: “Hambledon Vineyard is one of the best English sparkling wines, I don’t say that just because I work with them but I wouldn’t work with them if I didn’t think they are good, Ridgeview, Exton park and Winston estate.” English Sparkling Wine, including the products Three decades ago made by Didier and his pals, challenges existing wine styles such as Champagne, Prosecco Thirty years ago, Didier recalls most English or Cava. So which ones face the greatest wines were still, white and red. There were challenge from the English product? only few a English Sparkling Wines produced Didier says: “Definitely Champagne, Prosecco by vineyards such as Ridgeview, Nyetimber and and Cava are far behind.” Chapel Down. When he is asked if he had to choose to spend “At that time I did not imagine how English the rest of your life drinking only English Sparkling wine would develop, especially Sparkling Wine or Champagne, his reply is because the wine then was quite basic. It has as diplomatic as the signers of the informal massively improved since the last 10 years.” entente would have been. Sixteen years after his first taste of English He says: “Well, I’m going to be boring but I will wine, Didier has been seduced by the English go for the best, life is too short! Hambledon wine industry to become an ambassador for a as English sparkling and Frèrejean Freres leading vineyard. Champagne as French, and also carry on “I do act as ambassador for Hambledon vine- drinking and discovering wine from small yard,” he says. producers from Champagne and England.”

No longer a joke The question as to how Didier’s compatriots think of English Sparkling Wine is easily answered by him: “They thought it was a joke 15 years ago, they now take it very seriously! As you know Vranken and Taittinger invested in England planning vineyards too. That shows that my French compatriots take English Sparkling wine very serious.” While he wouldn’t point to any unique qualities in ESW: “I find similar aromas in other sparkling wines but I would say English Sparkling Wine is in general, very fresh, with lots of

Champagnes Frerejean Frères received three Gold Awards for her FJF Champagne from Glass of Bubbly. Chef de caves Didier Pierson (left) and UK brand ambassador Louie-Joe Findlater. ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE - GLASS of BUBBLY 23

English Sparkling Wines out perform Champagne in London

DURING London’s prestigious Champagne and sparkling wine awards run by Glass of Bubbly where fifty top wine judges from across the globe judge the best wines, results showed that England shone over its close neighbours. Out of nineteen trophies on offer Champagne took home two (including the Blue Ribbon title of The World’s Finest Glass of Bubbly) with England taking three, including the trophy for ‘Gastronomic’. The World’s Finest Glass of Bubbly Awards are held annually and award Champagne and sparkling wines with medals and trophies within consumer friendly categories. These have easy to understand descriptives such as ‘Fruity & Floral’, ‘Oaky & Toasty’ and ‘Sea Breeze’. The competition is of high standard, with hundreds of wines entering offering amazing fla24 GLASS of BUBBLY - FAB FOUR #1

vours to tempt the judges. Not limited to the more well known regions such as Champagne, Prosecco and Cava as countries such as Japan, Turkey, Canada and Slovenia also enter.

Christopher walkey. Founder, glass of bubbly

Well known labels to the yet to be discovered – wine must really appeal in order to gain a trophy which makes England’s achievement in the competition such a great one. Four amazing sparkling wines took home trophies in 2019 which are: 2019 Trophy for ‘Gastronomic’: Fox & Fox – Midnight Dark Dry Rose Brut 2011 2019 Trophy for ‘Light & Fruity’: Fitz Sparkling Wine – Fitz Pink

2019 Trophy for ‘Summer Days’: Raimes – Vintage Rose 2019 Trophy for ‘Spring Fling’: Bolney Estate – 2017 Cuvée Rosé Brut English sparkling wine also out performed Prosecco. The Fitz Pink is a rosé made by the charmat method which is the same production method for making Prosecco: they are the first to be doing this in England. Charmat method is certainly famous thanks to Prosecco. Despite this greatness it stood behind the charmat method of England as no Prosecco label took home a trophy during the 2019 awards. This left Fitz Sparkling Wine completely head and shoulders above the famous northern Italian sparkling wine region’s products.

King's Presence Chamber dinner at Hampton Court Palace COATES & Seely’s wine was served at a dinner in the Great Hall of Hampton Court Palace in the summer to thank some of the leading benefactors to Historic Royal Palaces. Drinks were taken in the Privy Garden – a perfect restoration of William III’s original garden of 1702 – after which guests proceeded to dinner in the Great Hall. Lying at the heart of the Tudor Palace and towering above the surrounding buildings, the Great Hall was designed to impress and to proclaim Henry VIII’s power and magnificence. By the time building started in 1533, Henry had divorced his first wife Katherine of Aragon and was married to his second, Anne Boleyn. Seventy years later, in the reign of James I, Shakespeare and his company of players performed A Midsummer Night’s Dream in the Great Hall. Other historic events at the Palace are too numerous to mention. The Palace stands as a remarkable repository of British royal history ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE - GLASS of BUBBLY 25

Chapel Down celebrates three years of fast growth in the USA

ent veyard Chapel Down arked three years of strong progress in the USA with a series of celebratory events in New York. They toasted at a sparkling event alongside other British luxury brands within the Walpole Group, which was hosted by the British Consul General Anthony Philipson at his residence. CEO Frazer Thompson (above left) joined acclaimed wine writer, Jancis Robinson OBE MW, in conversation to discuss the progress and prospects for English Sparkling Wine at a thought leadership forum for British Luxury Hospitality at the Whitby Hotel. Frazer then joined Jancis again, along with Hugh Johnson OBE, to toast the USA launch of their World Atlas of Wines with Chapel Down Three Graces 2014. Progress for us in the USA has been exciting with the focus since the start on sales in premium restaurants, bars and hotels where sales continue to trend close to 50%. Distribution has been built in key states on the East and West coasts as well as in Texas and Florida, principally where Champagne also performs well. The response to wines has been overwhelmingly positive and the opening pitch of Chapel Down Three Graces, priced above $65 per bottle across the pond, has been well received. Three Graces 2014 receiving an outstanding 95 points and the 26

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‘Chairman’s Trophy’ at the Ultimate Wine Challenge which only adds further weight to the argument. The grower has strong partners in the US working with ABCK Corp run by Arnaud Brachet, former Global Veuve Clicquot Marketing Director, who in turn is working with the fine wine division of Southern Glazer’s Wines & Spirits ensuring a strong national footprint. The results have been impressive, landing high profile ‘by the glass’ listings in high end accounts, such as The Pierre Hotel in New York, Top of The Hub in Boston, Wolfgang Puck in Dallas and Sunset Marquis in Los Angeles. Frazer Thompson comments: “We’ve been truly humbled by the response to our wines in the USA. Great early momentum as a growing number of friends recognise the world-class quality of the wines and love the association to all things British. The special relationship is alive and kicking!” Jancis Robinson adds: “I am delighted for the success of British wine-makers, Chapel Down in the USA. Their award winning Three Graces has a good balance, is well made, and overall a very good effort. “t’s no surprise that it won the Chairman’s trophy. Chapel Down are showing no doubt that the quality of the wine produced from vineyards in England is better than it has ever been.”

Sparkling wine with an English twist Fox & Fox Midnight Dark Dry RosĂŠ Brut 2011. Visit our website to shop or find out more about our highly-awarded range of delicious English Sparkling Wines. Glass of Bubbly Trophy Winner 2019 Gastronomic

Glass of Bubbly Gold Winner 2019 Fireworks

www.foxandfox.wine

Fizz fest goes with a pop! The Vineyards of Hampshire’s 7th

Fizz Fest was another sparkling success with over 1,000 English sparkling wine lovers attending in the warm sunshine in July. This year, hosted by Exton Park in the glorious Meon Valley, the event was opened with an exciting ‘sabrage’ (opening a bottle of sparkling wine with a sabre) by BBC Strictly Come Dancing judge, Craig Revel Horwood. Co-organiser Caroline Stevens from Danebury Vineyards says: ‘’We are very grateful to Craig for his wonderful support of the Vineyards of Hampshire, and are very excited that he is planting his own vineyard at his Hampshire home.’’

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This is the seventh annual wine festival held by Vineyards of Hampshire. Attendees poured into the main marquee to taste over fifteen different sparkling wines from the eight award winning vineyards that make up the Vineyards of Hampshire; Black Chalk (nr Winchester), Cottonworth Vineyards (Andover), Danebury Vineyards (Stockbridge), Exton Park Vineyard (Meon Valley), Hambledon Vineyard (Waterlooville), Hattingley Valley (Alresford), Jenkyn Place (Alton) and Raimes (Titchborne). Many attended wine workshops and partook of an array of local food stands, accompanied by the Alresford Ukulele band. Host Kit Ellen of Exton Park Vineyard says: ‘’Vineyards of Hampshire Fizz Fest is fast becoming a ‘go to’ event for wine lovers.”

Unapologetically British HAMPSHIRE-BASED vineyard Hattingley Valley has unashamedly created what it describes as “a truly unique range of English quality sparkling wines.” Flying the flag, Hattingley has had a keen eye on the export market since releasing its first wine in 2013; indeed it has attended Prowein in Germany on five occasions. It became clear to them that on an international stage, people spoke about the vineyard being ‘British’ rather than ‘English’. This was crystallised further still when discussions started with US importers who only referred to them a ‘Brits’! When Hattingley shipped its first pallets to America, staff actually wrapped the pallets in a union flag for a great photo opportunity and it helped to announce the launch in the US market; three years on, the image still gets traction today. When staff started to travel to the US to work marketing it became clear that there was no point in trying to correct references to the wines British rather than English. Even Camel Valley tried to protect the term ‘British Fizz’ after a bar operator in NYC used the term. It was quickly realised that internationally, brand Britain clearly meant more than brand England. However, part of the reason that many English producers have avoided using the term ‘British’ is because of an anomaly in the UK trade whereby you can import concentrated grape must from

abroad and then make it into wine in Britain which is called ‘British wine’. Hattingley took the decision that they did not like the fact that our strongest brand, Britain, had been taken by wine which is frankly at the very low end of the spectrum and has nothing to do with the booming English wine scene. There also used to be two bodies for wine relating to English wines on a producer level, the UKVA which was the growers association and EWP which was the marketing body. These two bodies merged to become WineGB and since then, there has been an increase in the press referring to premium English wines as ‘British’ wine, quite rightly starting to use the term for the top quality wines being made here from grapes grown here. So, to that end, Hattingley decided that they wouldn’t sit on the fence any longer and would come out as ‘British’ in order to try and regain the term for use in the premium sector. They added the ‘Unapologetically’ part as a tongue in cheek reference to the fact that we are, as a nation, well known for apologising! Hattingley Valley is owned by Simon Robinson who is also the chairman of industry body, Wines of Great Britain. Its vineyard team manages over 24 hectares (60 acres) of vines across two well-situated sites in the county.

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BACCHUS CHILLED, NOT STIRRED, MR BOND? IT all felt rather ‘James Bond’ at Buckinghamshire’s CHAFOR Wine Estate, during a summer visit by the Aston Martin Owners Club in 2015. Defiant of the forecast of ‘occasional light showers’, which is never popular among the vintage car fraternity, Aston Martins from all eras were cheek by jowl at the Buckinghamshire family-run vineyard for the Aston Martin Owners Club Area 15 Summer Meet. The AMOC Area 15 covers Northamptonshire and Bedfordshire and “welcomes all-comers, regardless of where they live and whether or not they own an Aston. The club members enjoyed a full tour and range tasting followed by a barbeque on the terrace with a talk on the key aspects of wine growing ‘Through The Vineyard Year’ by Tim Chafor himself, proprietor and wine grower at the estate which was already sporting a string of medals from the IWC, UKVA and the Thames & Chilterns Vineyards Association in just its second year of production. Set in the heart of the Buckinghamshire countryside, the first vines were planted on the 23 acre estate in 2003 - on terroir that once formed part of the ancient Royal hunting forest of Bernwood. With a world-class winemaking team to back his ambition Tim Chafor is successfully growing (to the Tim and Stephanie Chafor highest quality standard Protected Designation of Origin) the classic Champagne varieties of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, alongside more delicate and aromatic varieties.

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Photography credit: David Blaauw Photography

Elegant & award-winning sparkling wines from grapes grown on perfectly situated chalk. Raimes English Sparkling, Grange Farm, Tichborne, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 0NE

www.RAIMES.co.uk

Wine from a S Christopher Walkey takes a look at English Sparkling Wine’s growing global popularity IF we think about wines that have bubbles, it is Champagne that comes to mind first for many of us. It owns the title, and rightly so, as ‘the King of wines / wine of Kings’ and for years has been the benchmark for many a wine producer in the field of sparkling wines. The flavours and aromas of this famous wine region have kept the world captivated and impressed for centuries. Though well loved, it does not stand alone, with plenty of other sparkling wine regions now producing some fine examples that equal in aromas and flavours to Champagne. It is also not uncommon to find that other sparkling wines have been confused with Champagne, especially in blind tastings, and have been scored and awarded higher when being judged. One of the up and coming and somewhat new kid on the block is English Sparkling Wine. 32

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Nyetimber

Jenkyn Place

Though the theory of bubbles in wines can be credited, though not fully proven, to Dr Christopher Merrett in 1662 and bottle fermented sparkling wines were first produced in the 1950s, English sparkling wines hit the scene for real in the 1980s. Just how good are English sparkling wines compared to Champagne? There is of course no real reason for English sparkling wines not to be just as good as Champagne. The soil in southern parts of England is similar to the terroir of Champagne. Climate change can be blamed or

credited, depend of the subject, to quality of the gra in England with t age temperature from the Champ over the English C Experience is alw business, includin tion. This is especi

Scepterâ€™d Isle Denbies

Camal Valley

ding on your view have aided in the apes being grown the perfect averes shifting north pagne region to Channel. ways vital in any ng wine produially true in Cham-

Herbert Hall

pagne compared with sparkling wine made in England. The whole system is far more advanced in Champagne, from production levels that aid the likes of brand awareness to the experience of wine makers with many generations having passed down invaluable guidance. This knowledge is being shared and transferred globally now and experienced wine professionals are also leaving Champagne for more attractive challenges and opportunities abroad. We should also remember that Champagne houses are now seeing the value of English terrior and have been buying up land for planting of vines and sparkling wine production. The reasons for this exploration on to English soils will of course be business- driven in that land prices for planting vines are at a fraction of that compared to classified areas of Champagne. Through this, English Sparkling

Wines could continue to improve in quality and in turn value. There are a variety of flavours that can be explored with English sparkling wines with many grape varieties to choose from. There are over 650 commercial vineyards in England and Wales with 168 wineries producing some 13 million or so bottles annually with 69% being sparkling. English sparkling wines have really improved over recent years and have a great versatility for wine lovers to enjoy to include being a perfect partner to many styles of gastronomy. The price point remains very similar to Champagne (if we eliminate the cheaper Champagne labels sold bulk by supermarkets) and alongside Franceâ€™s famous fizz, English sparkling wine is also being exported globally. Approximately 10% of production being enjoyed outside of Englandâ€™s shores.

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Nyetimber returns to Japan TY Creation is exclusive importer and distributor

L eading English Sparkling Wine producer Nyetimber

has re-entered the Japanese market with the appointment of TY Creation as its exclusive importer and distributor, continuing the producer’s expansion into key Asian wine markets. Nyetimber’s range of worldclass sparkling wines and the partnership with TY Creation were celebrated at the British Embassy in Tokyo, Japan’s oldest foreign embassy, in the presence of Dr David Ellis. During the same week, exclusive dinners and tastings for press and trade were held at prestigious venues including The Park Hyatt Tokyo, The Tokyo American Club and Lagunaveil Premier in Osaka. Consumers will also be able to re-discover Nyetimber at Takashimaya department stores in major Japanese cities. Eric Heerema, owner & CEO of Nyetimber, comments: “We are excited to partner

with TY Creation to re-enter the Japanese market and bring Nyetimber’s worldrenowned sparkling wines to the discerning consumers and knowledgeable wine professionals in Japan. The market is an attractive one for Nyetimber, not only because our wines pair elegantly with many Japanese dishes, but also due to the longstanding desirability which luxury British brands enjoy there, as well as the level of consumer appreciation for the finest products. We look forward to working with TY Creation to lead the growth in awareness of both Nyetimber and English Sparkling Wine.” A boutique importer and

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distributor, TY Creation service fine-dining restaurants, five-star hotels and luxury department stores across Japan and will be working closely with Nyetimber to access Japan’s sophisticated sparkling wine consumers and take advantage of being one of the few English Sparkling Wines actively promoted in the market. Seiichi Mitani, owner and CEO of TY Creation, comments: “It is a great honour to be appointed as Nyetimber’s sole partner in Japan and our team is excited to introduce their finest cuvees to wine lovers across Japan. We fully believe that Nyetimber’s firm philosophy in both wine making and brand building will lead to great success in Japan and all over the world, and we are looking forward to playing a part in contributing to the brand’s international prosperity.” The brand is now available in retailers in 20 countries worldwide.

OPENING THE BOTTLE

THE LATEST ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE NEWS

Rathfinney’s first-ever en primeur launched Second-best Chapel Down’s harvest CHAPEL Down’s 2019 harvest, which yielded excellent quality fruit for wines, was the second largest ever harvest by volume yielding equivalent to 92% of 2018’s record harvest. Frazer Thompson, CEO of Chapel Down Group commented: “This year’s harvest has been another exceptional one and enables us to put sparkling base wines aside for future growth. “With some of our new vineyards giving us their first crop and high yields in our more mature vineyards, we are delighted to report our second highest ever vintage which yielded equivalent to 92% of 2018’s record harvest. “Despite the challenging weather during harvest we have again been delighted with not only the quantity of fruit but also the quality, especially in Kent. It’s testament to the outstanding team we have developed that we have been able to maintain very high quality fruit and excellent yields. This is further evidence of the genesis of a new World class wine-growing region.”

THE Nyetimber Boutique, an exclusive pop-up in London’s Burlington Arcade is open for this festive season. It is open from until Tuesday 31 December.

SUSSEX grower Rathfinny has launched its first ever en primeur campaign through its Classic Cuvée.

price of the £38 for its Blancs de Blancs and Blancs de Noirs, which were released in 2018 and 2019 respectively.

The wine is being positioned as The estate released 800 cases, a more accessible entry point which are aimed at private to the estate’s premium range. clients and visitors to the cellar door who might have The Classic Cuvée 2017, made missed out on previous from the classic Champagne allocations. varieties, will be released as part of the Rathfinny Reserved It has been made available programme for £19, excluding primarily via the Alfriston duty and VAT. This is half the winery.

RIDGEVIEW have taken double accolades in the MDHUB awards with Tamara Roberts awarded CEO of the Year and Esther Dawson PA of the Year. MDHUB is the premier peer-to-peer business growth network for managing directors in Southern England. Tamara has been an active member for seven years and she has valued the peer support of like-minded entrepreneurial leaders in the business group.. In the Judges’ comments on what it takes to be a CEO of the Year highlighted that it was Tamara’s “extraordinary resilience, tenacity, creativity, humanity and sheer bloody determination to make the business work was what made her shine.” ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE - GLASS of BUBBLY 35

two countries, hundreds of vineyards According to trade body wineGB, there are over 500 vineyards in Great Britain. Here is a list of some of the 150+ which produce English Sparkling Wine and a separate directory for Welsh vineyards. Always check before travelling any distance to visit a vineyard.

vineyards in england a’beckett’s SN10 4EN 01380 816669 www.abecketts.co.uk

Bardfield CM7 4QD 01371 810776 www.greatlodge.co.uk

Blackbookwinery SW8 3QR www.blackbookwinery. com

Brabourne TN25 5LR 01303 814432 www.brabournevineyard.co.uk

Adgestone PO360ES 01983 402882 www.adgestonevineyard.co.uk

Bardingley Farm TN120EG 07785955138 bardingley.com

Blackdown Ridge Estate GU27 3BT 01428 656003 www.blackdownridge.co.uk

Breaky Bottom BN7 3EX 01273 476427 www.breakybottom.co.uk

Albury GU5 9BW 07768 863560 www.alburyvineyard.com

Barnsole CT3 1LG 07772 300 511 www.barnsole.co.uk

Bluebell TN22 3RU 01825 791 561 www.bluebellvineyard.co.uk

Bride Valley DT2 9AW 01308 482367 www.bridevalleyvineyard.com

Alder Ridge RG170SP 01488 686770 www.alderridge.co.uk

Bearley CV370SR 01789 731676 www.bearleyvineyard.co.uk

Bluestone SP40EW 07501091132 www.bluestonevineyards.co.uk

Brightwell OX10 8LJ 01491 832354 www.brightwellvineyard.co.uk

Aldwick Estate BS40 5RF 01934 864404 www.aldwickestate.co.uk

Beeches HR9 7UD 01989 780214 www.beechesvineyard.com

Bolneywine Estate RH17 5NB 01444 881 575 www.bolneywineestate.com

Brookhill SO43 7JB 02380 813619 info@brookhillvineyard.co.uk

Amber Valley Wines DE55 6DL www.ambervalleywines. co.uk

Biddenden TN27 8DF 01580 291726 www.biddendenvineyards.com

Bosue PL26 6EU 01726 843159 www.bosuevineyard.co.uk

Busi Jacobsohn TN3 9HX 07590181718 www.busijacobsohn.com

Ashling Park Estate PO18 8DP 01243 943210 www.ashlingpark.co.uk

Black Chalkwine SP11 7JX 01964 771705 www.blackchalkwine.co.uk

Bothy OX13 6QW 01865 390067 www.bothyvineyard.co.uk

Camel Valley PL26 6EU 01208 77959 www.camelvalley.com

Astley DY130RU 01299 822907 www.astleyvineyard.co.uk

Black Dog Hill Wines BN6 8XE 07710 572974 www.blackdoghillvineyard.com

Bow In The Cloud SN16 9NS 01666 823040 www.bowinthecloud.co.uk

Carlton Towers DN14 9LZ 01405 861662 www.carltontowers.co.uk

GLASS of BUBBLY - FAB FOUR #1

Carr Taylorwines TN35 4SG 01424 752501 www.carr-taylor.co.uk

Clay Hill CM3 6HF 07771 995460 www.clayhillvineyard.co.uk

Denbies Wine Estate RH5 6AA 01306 876616 www.denbies.co.uk

Fairmile RG9 2LB 01491 598588 www.fairmilevineyard.co.uk

Castle Brook HR9 5SG 01989 562770 www.castlebrookvineyard.co.uk

Coates and Seely RG28 7QT 01256 892220 www.coatesandseely.com

Digby Fine English BN18 9AJ 020 7112 8887 www.digby-fine-english.com

Fenny Castle BA5 1NL 01749 678900 www.fennycastlevineyard.co.uk

CHAFORwine Estate MK18 4HT 07973 892437 www.chafor.co.uk

Coddington HR8 1JJ 01531 641817 www.coddingtonvineyard.co.uk

Dropmore SL1 8NF 01628 666889 www.dropmorevineyard.co.uk

Flint NR35 2AH 01986 893209 www.flintvineyard.com

Chapel Down TN30 7NG 01580 766111 www.chapeldown.com

Cottonworth SP11 7JX 01264 860531 www.cottonworth.co.uk

Dryhill GL53 9QR 07887 546655 www.dryhill.co.uk

Forest Edge SP6 2NW 01725 511780 www.swallowfinewine.co.uk

Charlie Herring SO41 8HE 07913 504587 www.charlieherring.com

Court Garden BN6 8TH 01273 844 479 www.courtgarden.com

Dunesforde YO26 9RU 01423 887951 www.dunesforde.com

Four Acre G11 2AW 07802 313075 www.fouracresestate.co.uk

Chartham CT4 7HU 01233 813709 www.charthamvineyard.co.uk

Crouch Ridge CM3 6 BZ 07970 527893 www.crouchridge.com

Dunleavy BS40 5RS 07779085420 www.dunleavyvineyards.co.uk

Giffords Hall IP29 4EX 01284 830 799 www.giffordshall.co.uk

Chet andwaveney Valley NR15 1BT 01508 333002 www.chetvineyard.co.uk

Dâ€™urberville DT2 9SF 01305 266 850 www.durbervillevineyard.co.uk

East Meon GU32 1NJ 01730 823274 www.eastmeonvineyard.co.uk

Godstone RH9 8DQ 01883 744590 www.godstonevineyards.uk

Chevel Estate LE17 6DX 07748 635553 www.chevelestate.com

Dalwood EX13 7EH 07909 545426 www.dalwoodvineyard.co.uk/

Eglantine LE12 6UX 01509 85238 www.eglantinevineyard.co.uk

Grange Estate SO24 9TF 01962 779668 www.thegrangeestate.co.uk

Chilford Hall CB21 4LE 01223 895600 www.chilfordhall.co.uk

Danebury SO20 6JX 01264 781851 www.danebury.com

Elysian Fields CB6 3HJ 07860 663510 www.elysianfieldsvineyard.co.uk

Greyfriars GU3 1AG 01483 813712 www.greyfriarsvineyard.co.uk

Chilworth Manor GU4 8NN 01483 570797 www.chilworthmanorvineyard.com

Davenport TN6 3RR 01892 852 380 www.davenportvineyards.co.uk

Exton Park SO32 3NW 01489 878788 www.extonparkvineyard.com

Gusbourne TN26 2BE 01233 758666 www.gusbourne.com

Chinthurst Hill GU50QH 07780003101 www.chinthursthillvineyards.com

Daws Hill HP14 4DY 01494 483358 www.dawshillvineyard.co.uk

Failand Farm Partnership BS8 3TR 01275 395560 www.failand.farm

Halfpenny Greenwine Estate DY7 5EP 01384 221122 www.halfpenny-green-vineyards.co.uk

ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE - GLASS of BUBBLY 37

Hambledon PO7 4RY 02392 632358 www.hambledonvineyard.co.uk

Kingscote Estate & RH19 4LG 01342 327535 www.kingscote.com

Melbury Vale SP70BW 01747 854206 www.mvwinery.co.uk

Pewley Down 07787 554465 www.pewleydownvineyard. co.uk

Hanwellwine Estate LE14 3QG 01949 81393 www.hanwellwine.co.uk

Knightorwinery PL26 8YQ 01726 851101 www.knightor.com

Meopham Valley DA130PY 01474 325148 www.meophams.co.uk

Pinglestone Estate 02036 971050 www.vrankenpommery.com/ en/domains/louis-pommery

Harrow & Hope SL7 3RD 01628 481091 www.harrowandhope.com

Langhamwine Estate DT2 7NG 01258 839095 www.langhamwine.co.uk

Mountfield 01580 880442 www.mountfieldwinery. com

Plumpton College BN7 3AE 01273 890454 www.plumptonwine.co.uk

Hattingley Valley SO24 9AJ 01256 389188 www.hattingleyvalley.co.uk

Laverstoke Park RG25 3DR www.laverstokepark. co.uk

Nutbournes RH20 2HH 01798 815 196 www.nutbournevineyards.com

Polgoon TR20 8TE 01736 333 946 www.polgoon.com

Hazel End CM23 1HG 01279 812377 www.corylet.com

Leonardslee 01493 220 345 www.leanardsleegardens. co.uk

Nyetimber 0207 734 8490 RH20 2HH www.nyetimber.com

Portesham DT3 4ER 07890 478 634 www.porteshamvineyard.com

Hendred OX12 8RJ 01235 834770 www.hendredvineyard.co.uk

Leventhorpe LS26 8AF 0113 2889088 www.leventhorpevineyard.co.uk

Old Luxters RG9 6JW 01491 638330 www.chilternvalley.co.uk

Poulton Hill Estate GL7 5JA 01285 850 257 www.poultonhillestate.co.uk

Henners BN27 1RJ www.hennersvineyard. co.uk

Lily Farm EX9 7AH 07977057864 www.lilyfarmvineyard.com

Ovens Farm LN11 8RD 07919 320290 www.ovensfarmvineyard.co.uk

Quob Park Estate PO17 5PG 01329 830 500 www.quobparkvineyard.com

Heppington 07973 122 398 www.heppingtonvineyard. co.uk

Littlewold HU15 2BP 07970 976001 www.littlewoldvineyard.co.uk

Oxney Organic Estate TN31 6TU 01797 260 137 www.oxneyestate.com

Raimes English Sparkling SO240NE 01962 732120 www.raimes.co.uk

High Clandon Estate GU4 7RP 01483 225 660 www.highclandon.co.uk

Lyme Bay Winery EX13 7PW 01297 551355 www.lymebaywinery.co.uk

Painters NN7 3BZ 07970 199963 www.stonyfieldwine.co.uk

Sedlescombe TN32 5SA 01580 830 715 www.englishorganicwine.co.uk

Hush Heath Estate &winery TN12 0HT 01622 832794 www.hushheath.com

Mannings Heath Wine Estate RH13 6PG 01403 210 228 www.manningsheath.com

Parva Farm NP16 6SQ 01291 689636 www.parvafarm.com

Sharpham TQ9 7UT 01803 732203 www.sharpham.com

Jenkyn Place GU10 5LU 01420 481580 www.jenkynplace.com

Maud Heath SN11 9LQ 01249 740496 www.maudheathvineyard.co.uk

Pebblebed EX30NZ 07702420525 www.pebblebed.co.uk

Sherborne Castle DT9 5NR 01935 810675 www.sherbornecastle.com

GLASS of BUBBLY - FAB FOUR #1

Simpsons Wine Estate CT4 6PB 01227 832200 www.simpsonswine.com

The Vyneyarde,Westwell TN270BW 01233 690471 www.westwellwines.com

Walton Brook LE12 5TQ 07779622858 www.waltonbrook.com

Woodchester Valley 07710 605558 www.woodchestervalleyvineyard.co.uk

Sixteen Ridges HR8 2JL 01531 637119 www.sixteenridges.co.uk

Thelnetham IP22 1JL www.thelnethamvineyard. com

Warden Abbey SG18 9LS 07981 113714 www.wardenvineyard.org.uk

Woodchurch Wine Estate TN26 3RE 07796 693935 woodchurchwine.co.uk

Smith And Evans Wines TA10 0QL 01458 259075 www.smithandevans.co.uk

Three Choirs GL18 1LS 01531 890223 www.threechoirs.com

Wayford TA18 8QN 01460 74321 www.wayfordvineyard.com

Wraxall BA4 6RQ 01749 860 331 www.wraxallvineyard.co.uk

Southcott Partnership SN9 5JF 01672 569190 www.southcottvineyard.co.uk

Tillingham Wines TN31 6XD 01797 230734 www.tillingham.com

Welcombe Hills CU370QB 07810 813 701 www.welcombehills.co.uk

Wroxeter Roman SY5 6PQ 01743 761003 wroxeter.co.uk

Sparrow Hill BS26 2LN www.sparrowhillvineyard. co.uk

Tinwood Estate PO18 0NE 01243 537372 www.tinwoodestate.com

Welland Valley 01858 434591 www.welland-valley-vineyard. com

Wyfold RG4 9HU 07768 652636 www.wyfoldvineyard.com

Springfields 01825 712 248 www.springfieldsvineyard. co.uk

Trevibban Mill PL27 7SE 01841 541 413 www.trevibbanmill.com

West Fisher Winery CR6 9PP 01959 575 893 www.westfisher.co.uk

Wykens IP31 2DW 01359 250287 www.wykenvineyards.co.uk

Squerryes TN16 1QP 01959 562 345 www.squerryes.co.uk

Trotton Estates GU31 5DB 07787 510383 www.trottonestatevineyards.com

West Street CO6 1NS 01376 563303 www.weststreetvineyard.co.uk

Wythall Estate HR9 5SD 01989 566868 www.wythallestate.co.uk

Stanlake Park Wine Estate RG100BN 0118 934 0176 www.stanlakepark.com

Uphill EX21 5EN 01409 211400 www.careyvalleywines.co.uk

Weyborne GU32 3DR 0207002 5350 www.weyborne.com

Yorkshire Heart YO26 8EL 01423 330716 www.yorkshireheart.com

Stopham RH20 1EG 01798 865666 www.stophamvineyard.co.uk

Vagabond Wines SW11 8EZ 0203 914 4655 www.vagabondwines.co.uk/

Winding Wood RG17 9RJ 07798 88505007770 377252 windingwoodvineyard.co.uk

Terlingham CT18 7AE 01303 892452 www.terlinghamvineyard.co.uk

Valley Farms IP19 0JJ 07867009967 www.valleyfarmvineyards.co.uk

Windsor Great Park 01189031038 www.windsorgreatparkvineyard.com

The Mount TN14 7SD 01959 524008 www.themountvineyard.co.uk

Velfrey SA34 0RA 01994 240002 www.velfreyvineyard.com

Wiston Estate Winery RH20 4BB 01903 877845 www.wistonestate.com ENGLISH SPARKLING WINE - GLASS of BUBBLY 39

vineyards in wales Ancre Hill Monmouth NP25 5HS 01600 714152 www.ancrehillestates.co.uk Bryn Ceiliog Vineyard Beggan Farm. Leckwith CF11 8AS 029 2071 1017 Conwy Vineyard Llangwstenin, Llandudno Junction LL31 9JF 01492 545596 www.conwyvineyard.co.uk

Gwinllan Conwy Y Gwinwydd, Llangwstenin, Llandudno Junction, Wales, LL31 9JF 01492 545596 www.gwinllanconwy.co.uk Jabajak Vineyard Banc Y Llain Llanboidy Road, Whitland SA34 0ED 01994 448786 www.jabajak.co.uk Kerry Vale Vineyard Church Stoke, Pentreheyling SY15 6HU 01588 620627 www.kerryvalevineyard.co.uk

Cwm Deri Vineyard Martletwy, Narberth Pembrokeshire SA67 8AP 01834 891 274 www.cwm-deri.co.uk

Llaethliw Estate Vineyard Neuaddlwyd Aberaeron, Ceredigion 01545 571879

Glyndwr Vineyard Llanblethian, Cowbridge,Vale Of Glamorgan CF71 7JF 01446 624759 www.glyndwrvineyard.co.uk

Llanerch Vineyard Hensol Vale of Glamorgan, South Wales CF72 8GG 01443 222716 www.llanerch-vineyard.co.uk

40 GLASS of BUBBLY - FAB FOUR #1

Meadow View Crossways, Llanblethian 02920 515552 or 07973 827524 Montgomery Vineyard SY15 6LR 01686 670 301 www.montgomeryvineyard. co.uk Pant Du Ffordd y Sir, Penygroes Gwynedd LL54 6HE 01286 880806 / 881819 www.pantdu.co.uk Parva Farm Vineyard, Tintern, Chepstow, Monmouthshire NP166SQ 01291 689636 www.parvafarm.com Penarth Vineyard Pool Road, Newtown Montgomeryshire, Powys SY16 3AN 07933 671 495 www.penarthvineyard. co.uk

Red Wharf Bay Vineyard Llain Gam, Lon Y Traeth, Pentaeth, Anglesey LL75 8YG 0791 999 4530 www.RedWharfBayVineyard. co.uk Sugarloaf Vineyard Dummar Farm, Abergavenny NP7 7LA 01873 853066 www.sugarloafvineyard.co.uk Ty Croes Vineyard Dwyran, Llanfairpwll LL61 6RP Velfrey Vineyard Lampeter Velfrey Pembrokeshire SA34 0RA 01994 240002 White Castle Vineyard Llanvetherine Abergavenny NP7 8RA 01873 821443 www.whitecastlevineyard.com

Champagne Cremant Cava Espumate Asti Prosecco Sekt English Sparkling Wine

NO 19 feb/mar 2020 £5 / S$5 / €5

GLASS of BUBBLY

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