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English sparkling wine: A versatile choice for festive celebrations
England’s wineries can produce varietals with complex flavours to be a versatile companion for various dishes, says Martin Dibben
As we think about the festive celebrations, we need to select those bubbles we are going to offer. Champagne has versatility to pair with a full festive menu, but this year also think about some of the great English and Welsh sparkling wines available.
English sparkling wine has gained a reputation rivalling even the finest Champagnes. The cool climate of England, particularly in regions like Kent and Sussex, provides ideal conditions for growing the classic Champagne grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. The result is a sparkling wine that boasts high acidity, fine bubbles and complex flavours, making it a versatile companion for various dishes.
We are now seeing some wonderful Blanc de Blancs from the English houses. Made from just the white grape, these are crisper and more minerally and so make the perfect aperitif and accompaniment if you have a smoked salmon or other fish starter. Bolney, the oldest Sussex winery, has created a single vintage (2021) Chardonnay-based Blanc de Blancs bursting with sophistication with a smooth and creamy texture and elegant citrus and apple fruit aromas.
Whether offering a traditional roast turkey, goose or a vegetarian nut roast, English sparkling wine can hold its own. The acidity in the wine helps cut through the rich, fatty flavours of the meat and gravy whilst the bubbles refresh the palate between bites. With the great variety of flavours, sweetness and textures going on, choose a Brut blended from the three main grapes.
For dessert, a sparkling rosé can be a delightful choice. Its berry notes and slight sweetness pair wonderfully with fruit-based desserts or even a classic Christmas pudding. At Searcys last ‘Bubbly Show’, the much talked-about rosé was the Highweald Rosé Reserve NV – another Sussex winery which just knows how to get that fine persistent mousse with intense aromas and taste of English summer berries.
We must remember that many guests do prefer the ‘Prosecco style’, where the wine is a little sweeter, with fruity aromas, easily quaffable and budget-friendly for the large office party. Prosecco is made using the charmat method where the second fermentation takes place in a tank. We are now seeing English houses tapping into this market. Doing this on a major scale is the Silver Reign Estate in Kent, which is making a Brut non-vintage and a rosé Brut non-vintage. What I like about these wines is the fact that the Brut uses the classic Champagne grapes and the rosé is made from 100% Pinot Noir, so you get easy drinking wines with a touch of elegance.
Finally, do consider your guests who are looking for non-alcoholic options. Wild Idol provides a sophisticated glass of bubbles for those avoiding alcohol. The bottle is stylish with very small delicate bubbles. Its sparkling rosé is crafted from a blend of Müller-Thurgau and Merlot grapes, resulting in a crisp wine with notes of red berries and green apple, that make it a versatile choice for the entire meal from light starters to rich desserts.
Do you have a question for one of the Drinks Doctors? Send your query to drinks@thecaterer.com
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