English Sparkling Wines

English sparkling wine is a type of sparkling wine produced in the United Kingdom, primarily in the wine regions of southern England, including Sussex, Kent, and Hampshire.

The grape varieties used in the production of English sparkling wine include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, with some producers also using a range of other grape varieties, such as Seyval Blanc and Bacchus.

The production process for English sparkling wine typically follows the traditional method of secondary fermentation in the bottle, similar to Champagne. The wine is made by first producing a still wine, which is then bottled with a mixture of yeast and sugar to undergo a second fermentation. This process creates carbon dioxide and gives the wine its bubbles.

After fermentation, the wine is aged on its lees for a period of time, typically several months or even years, to develop its flavors and aromas. The wine can be produced in a range of styles, from dry to sweet, and may be white or rosé in color.

English sparkling wine is often compared to Champagne in terms of quality, with some experts even suggesting that certain English sparkling wines can rival the best Champagnes. It is often enjoyed as an aperitif and pairs well with a range of foods, including seafood, poultry, and cheese. Some of the well-known producers of English sparkling wine include Nyetimber and Ridgeview.