England and Wales

Question 1

What sparkling wines are made in England?

Answer 1

• White wines, but also some rose made
• Almost all are traditional method, and predominantly they are vintage wines.

Question 2

What are the distinctive characteristics of English sparkling wines?

Answer 2

Very high acidity and just ripe fruit (apple/lemon)

Question 3

What is the quality/price of English sparkling wines?

Answer 3

• Very good, some outstanding
• Premium to super-premium

Question 4

Describe the climate

Answer 4

• All vineyards are above 50°, resulting in long daylight hours and cool climate
• Average growing seasoin temp of 14° now
• Cool, maritime.

Question 5

What does the cool temperature of the growing season result in?

Answer 5

• Slow ripening
• Slow sugar accumulation
• Preservation of acidity
• Medium intensity fruit

Question 6

What are the soils and what do they result in?

Answer 6

• In Kent and parts of Sussex, clay
  
  • Pronounced fruit, slightly lower acidity
• In Hampshire and Sussex, significant chalk
  
  • Leaner body, more finesse, higher acidity.

Question 7

What are yields like, and what is the result?

Answer 7

Quite modest due to marginal climate @ 24hL/ha. Production is therefore variable and means prices are premium+.

Question 8

What are the permitted varietals?

Answer 8

• Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Meunier, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir Precoce for PDO English
• Other varietals can be labellled with a PGI