Are UK Vineyards Set To Be Top Of The Pops? ( Covid 19 Restrictions May Apply)
Are UK Vineyards Top of The Pops?
As airports start to open up and some kind of normality resumes, a visit to the Champagne area of France is an increasingly realistic prospect. And as a dedicated follower of fizz myself, I admit to feeling the pull…
Popping off to France for a weekend is incredibly easy and uncovering a boutique Champagne house in a hidden corner of Epernay is admittedly a unique experience.
However as the sparkling wine industry in the UK continues to thrive, could UK products soon be top of the pops?
The Champagne Life with Great British Style
In recent years the English Sparkling wine industry has been going from strength to strength. And it got really serious during a blind taste test. when a bottle of English bubbles out glittered a well known French brand.
The very allure of Champagne is the perceived elegance and maybe even the fragility. A good Champagne relies on a lot of factors being just right which includes the soil ( chalky, limestone) and specifically the climate.
The South East of the UK boasts the same chalky soil as the Champagne region and as climate change increases the temperature, even by as little as one degree, UK sparkling wines increase in quality. Unfortunately for the Champagne region, that one degree increase is having the opposite effect!
Should you swap Reims for Rye?
In the UK there are many vineyards, (particularly in the South) which are increasingly boasting award winning products, but this is most evident in the South East of the country….so off we go.
Book the family suite at The Old Drum, complete with kitchen area
Where to Stay?
Two quick recommendations, depending on how much cash you fancy splashing and how much you might need for glugging!
In the interest of being honest, I need to admit I have “skin in the game” with this one, as it is owned by my stepson and family- shameless plug!
The Old Drum is a fab base to explore the vineyards of the South East and with an extensive range of English sparkling wines stocked in house, it is a good place to get your palate in training.
They have a variety of rooms available, all with superior quality bedding and furnishings. However on the top floor is a larger suite complete with sitting area and kitchen. Beautifully designed throughout.
The Spread Eagle Midhurst, Models, Bloggers Own
I should stress that the Spread Eagle Hotel is not a modern or slick affair for the main part. And it is probably intentional. As an historic coaching house dating back to 1430, the owners have subscribed to a shabby chic vibe, which equates to squeaky doors, creaking floorboards and mismatched soft furnishings. That said, the old worlde charm is wonderfully beguiling and makes for an atmospheric stay.
NB: The spa is a fabulous bonus and very modern in contrast.
Top Picks
Raimes, Grange Farm, Alresford, Hampshire, S024 0NE
If we only judge these fabulous wines on their ability to emulate their French counterparts, it would be a disservice! They are different and rightly so!
That said, the 2014 Classic from Raimes is as good as any boutique Champagne producer to be found in France.
Tours recommenced on the 4th July and even though it rained, the people still came (socially distanced of course). Pre-booking required for tours and tasting.
Produce of Raimes of Vineyard
Coates and Seely, The Harroway, Whitchurch, Hampshire, RG28 7QT
“Too much of anything is bad. But too much Champagne is just right” ! F. Scott Fitzgerald. - Not my words, so please do drink responsibly!
Jokes aside! Champagne often leaves you wanting more and this can lead to over indulgence.
And here is why I love Coates and Seely Brut Reserve NV! It definitely leaves you wanting more but without regretting it the morning after!
The products have been developed with input from French wine-makers but their socially distanced Private Tours are a distinctly British affair, complete with a Grade II listed building backdrop, manicured lawns and a bus for added English eccentricity
Nyetimber, Gay Street, West Chiltington RH20 2HH
Perhaps one of the most recognised vineyards in the UK and now available to purchase in UK mainstream supermarkets and many good restaurants up and down the country. Crafted in a traditional manner, these wines are deservedly Award Winning.
The brand has an air of exclusivity and you will need to register your details in order to be invited to tastings, tours and events.
Other Vineyards In The Area
Gusbourne, Kenardington Rd, Appledore, Ashford TN26 2BE
Hattingley Valley Wines, Wield Yard, Lower Wield, Alresford SO24 9AJ
Chapel Down, Tenterden Vineyard Park, Small Hythe Rd, Tenterden TN30 7NG
Hambledon Vineyard, East St, Hambledon, Waterlooville PO7 4RY
And thanks to Georgia Balmain at Coates & Seely for her fabulous customer service!