Ashdown Bacchus, Bluebell Vineyard Estates Sussex 2022
Country
United Kingdom
Region
Southern England
Producer
Bluebell Vineyard Estates
Grape(s)
Bacchus (100%)
Type
White
Style
Crisp
Oaked Style
Unoaked
Body Style
Light bodied
Dry/Sweet Style
Bone dry
Alcohol Content
11.5%
Closure Style
Cork
Organic/Biodynamic
No
Sustainable
Yes-certified sustainable
Vegetarian/Vegan
Vegetarian
Yes
Vegan
Yes
Allergens
Sulphites
Yes
Milk
No
Egg
No
Region
If you have never tried an English wine before – well now is your opportunity. The vineyards of England are generally located in the warmer southern counties where the milder influences of the gulf stream have an important effect, as our northern hemisphere vineyards need a longer cooler growing season than in Europe to produce top quality grapes. More than 500 vineyards are in production across the UK and bottled annual sales has reached 3 million bottles, with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Bacchus the most planted varieties.
Producer
The original vines of Bluebell Vineyards were planted in 2005 with the desire to produce high quality English sparkling wines. The wines are named Hindleap as the Hindleap Hill is just beyond the vineyards. Situated on the fringes of the Ashdown Forest on sandstone soils, there are now 10 ha under vine, predominantly Pinot Noir and the classic Champagne varieties with some experimental Seyval and Bacchus. The vines are carefully nurtured, and hand harvested before small bath fermentation. Blending the wines before the second fermentation and ageing for a minimum nine months (17 months in practice) imparts a distinct imprint of terroir to the Champagne quality.
Tasting Notes
Made from 100% Bacchus, a grape that thrives in the Sussex climate. The palate is light and refreshing, with notes of elderflower, gooseberry and nettles complemented by a white grapefruit acidity and subtle apricot notes on the finish.
Food
Serve with summer salads or beetroot ceviche.
