England and Wales Flashcards
1
Q
What sparkling wines are made in England?
A
- White wines, but also some rose made
- Almost all are traditional method, and predominantly they are vintage wines.
2
Q
What are the distinctive characteristics of English sparkling wines?
A
Very high acidity and just ripe fruit (apple/lemon)
3
Q
What is the quality/price of English sparkling wines?
A
- Very good, some outstanding
- Premium to super-premium
4
Q
Describe the climate
A
- All vineyards are above 50°, resulting in long daylight hours and cool climate
- Average growing seasoin temp of 14° now
- Cool, maritime.
5
Q
What does the cool temperature of the growing season result in?
A
- Slow ripening
- Slow sugar accumulation
- Preservation of acidity
- Medium intensity fruit
6
Q
What are the soils and what do they result in?
A
- In Kent and parts of Sussex, clay
- Pronounced fruit, slightly lower acidity
- In Hampshire and Sussex, significant chalk
- Leaner body, more finesse, higher acidity.
7
Q
What are yields like, and what is the result?
A
Quite modest due to marginal climate @ 24hL/ha. Production is therefore variable and means prices are premium+.
8
Q
What are the permitted varietals?
A
- Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Meunier, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir Precoce for PDO English
- Other varietals can be labellled with a PGI
