Celebrate English Wine Week with Sussex’s Finest Producers

As English Wine Week approaches, there's no better time to celebrate the incredible wines crafted right here in Sussex. This annual event is a fantastic opportunity for wine enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the growing English wine industry. Sussex, in particular, is home to some of the most renowned producers who are making waves both nationally and internationally. Join us as we spotlight six exceptional Sussex wineries that you won't want to miss during this year's English Wine Week.

Breaky Bottom

Nestled in the South Downs National Park, Breaky Bottom is a hidden gem that has been producing outstanding sparkling wines since 1974. Founded by Peter Hall, Breaky Bottom’s secluded vineyard benefits from the unique microclimate and chalky soils of the region. Their dedication to quality and traditional methods results in wines that are elegant, complex, and truly reflective of the Sussex terroir. A visit to Breaky Bottom is not only a chance to taste exceptional wines but also to experience the serene beauty of the English countryside.

Cuvee Oliver Minkley, 2011 - This small-batch blend aged on the lees for six years shows great depth of flavour. Peter Said "This wine is dedicated to the fond memory of Oliver, who died in 2010 at the age of 35. He worked part-time at Breaky Bottom for many years. He had a passion for stand-up comedy and after a day in the vineyard used to try out his new jokes on the sheep." The blend is 60% Chardonnay, 30% Seyval Blanc, 5% Pinot Meunier, 5% Pinot Noir, with 2,600 bottles produced. Buttered toast, honey and frangipane aromas from the maturity complement the fresh apple and citrus fruit. Long and clean on the palate, with beautiful breadth of body and a fine, persistent bead. A rare delight worth every penny!

Sugrue South Downs

Sugrue South Downs, established by celebrated winemaker Dermot Sugrue, is synonymous with excellence in English sparkling wine. Dermot's extensive experience and passion for winemaking shine through in every bottle. The estate focuses on producing limited quantities of high-quality sparkling wines, primarily from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes. Sugrue’s wines are noted for their finesse, balance, and aging potential, making them a must-try for any wine connoisseur.

Sugrue The Trouble with Dreams 2019 - The 2019 is a blend of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir, from Mount Harry, Coldharbour and Storrington Priory vineyards. Half of the blend is fermented in old Burgundy barrels to help develop richness and complexity. It spent 3 and a half years ageing on its lees before disgorging with a small dosage of 6 g/L. 

Another spectacular vintage for this wine, showing intense and pure citrus and stone fruits with floral, nutty and pastry aromas adding complexity. Long and crisp on the palate, with fine bubbles and flinty minerality in the finish. Delicious now, either as an aperitif or with seafood (Henry was fortunate to attend a prior Sugrue launch party where the wines went stunningly with oysters), these wines also have a brilliant capacity for further ageing in bottle.

Westwell

Located on the picturesque slopes of the North Downs, Westwell Wine Estate is a dynamic winery known for its innovative approach and sustainable practices. Westwell’s diverse range includes sparkling, still, and pet-nat wines, each crafted with a focus on expressing the unique character of their vineyard. Their traditional method sparkling wines are particularly celebrated, offering a delightful blend of richness and freshness. Westwell is a great example of how English winemakers are pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities. The guiding philosophy at Westwell is straightforward: cultivate with care, respect the soil, and craft exceptional, honest wines from exceptional fruit.

Blanc de Blancs 2013 - Crafted through traditional bottle fermentation, Westwell Blanc de Blancs 2013 showcases Chardonnay grapes meticulously handpicked and sorted for quality. Bottled in the summer of 2014 and disgorged in June 2021, the extended lees aging imparts complexity and depth. The wine presents a vibrant, elegant citrus profile, accompanied by crisp vanilla pastry notes and the quintessential saline minerality characteristic of our top vineyard blocks. This exclusive release is limited to 1250 bottles.

Stopham Estate

Stopham Estate, situated in the heart of Sussex, combines state-of-the-art winemaking facilities with a commitment to sustainability and minimal intervention. The estate is renowned for its aromatic still wines, especially its Pinot Gris and Bacchus, which capture the essence of the English summer with their bright, floral, and citrusy notes. Stopham’s dedication to preserving the natural environment of their vineyard results in wines that are not only delicious but also sustainably produced.

Pinot Gris 2022 - Stopham's Pinot Gris is recognised as one of the best white wine examples in England, consistently winning the best still white award at the independent English wines awards (IEWA) competition. Off-dry with aromatic peach and pear fruit alongside the tropical fruit character on the nose. On the palate, this has excellent balance with crisp acidity. It is fairly full in body, with plenty of juicy fruit intensity, but is refreshing and long, with a lively citrus and stone fruit finish. Excellent with spicy dishes, roast pork or as an aperitif.

Albourne Estate

Albourne Estate, a family-owned vineyard just 8 miles from Brighton, is known for its diverse portfolio of award-winning wines. From sparkling to still, each wine from Albourne Estate showcases the meticulous care and attention to detail that goes into every step of their production process. Their sparkling wines, made using the traditional method, are a highlight, offering vibrant acidity and complex flavors. Albourne’s wines are a testament to the potential of English wine and the skill of Sussex winemakers.

Bacchus 2022 - Bacchus is an exquisite and quintessentially English single varietal wine. Embodying the characteristics of its varietal, this 2022 Bacchus is delicately pale, offering a refreshing and crisp mouthfeel with a captivating aromatic profile. While drawing comparisons to New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, the Bacchus grape reveals a wider spectrum of aromas, influenced by each vintage and vineyard. Scents that span from herbaceous notes of tomato leaf, basil, sage, nettle, and fresh grass to vibrant citrus expressions of lime zest, lemon, and grapefruit. Discover tropical fruit nuances of medlar, mango, and passionfruit, along with delicate floral hints of elderflower and honeysuckle. The intensity of these aromas can vary from bold and invigorating to subtle and refined.

 

Vindemiate

Vindemiate is a rising star in the Sussex wine scene, bringing a fresh perspective to traditional winemaking. With a focus on quality and innovation, Vindemiate produces a range of wines that are both exciting and approachable. Their commitment to using the best grapes and employing meticulous winemaking techniques ensures that each bottle reflects the true character of the Sussex terroir. Vindemiate’s wines are perfect for those looking to discover new and unique English wines.

Black and White Col Fondo 2022 - A vibrant and mouth-watering sparkling rose made from grapes grown sustainably in Suffolk. A blend of two-thirds Pinot Noir and one-third Pinot Meunier, fermented and aged for 16 months on lees in a used French oak barrel before undergoing secondary fermentation in bottle. A Col Fondo style, it has not been disgorged leaving some lees in the bottle (expect a little cloudiness). The nose combines tart red berries with some richer apple crumble notes from the lees ageing and a hint of wild flowers. On the palate it is fresh and frothy with lots of juicy fruit and a note of lemon curd in the finish. A perfect partner for summer salads, oily fish or simply enjoying on its own with friends in the sunshine! 

Join Us in Celebrating English Wine Week

English Wine Week is the perfect time to explore the incredible wines being produced right here in Sussex. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning your journey, these six producers offer something for everyone. Visit us in store or online to explore these exceptional wines and learn more about the stories behind each bottle. Let’s raise a glass to the remarkable achievements of Sussex winemakers and the bright future of English wine. Cheers!