“But is it actually any good?” A question frequently asked by customers or friends looking for English wines.
If your last memory of English wine is vinegar, let me try to convince you otherwise. I promise there are some good ones out there growing near us too.
English wine, once an obscure and often overlooked sector of the wine market, has undergone a renaissance over the past decade or so. From ancient vineyards to modern acclaim, the story of English wine is one of romance, resilience, innovation and creativity.
While countries like Georgia and Romania claim a place at the top of the list, being the birthplace of winemaking, English viticulture has a long history too.
It dates back to Roman times, when vineyards were established in the south of England – now I'm not suggesting that winemaking was good back then, but we all started somewhere.
Jump into the 20th century, as pioneering vintners began planting vineyards with modern techniques and focused on grape varieties that were better suited to our cool climate.
Admittedly, this revival is helped by slightly warmer seasons and better weather conditions, but we are still working to grow our reputation and grape experience. And boy, oh boy, does it get better every year.
Nowadays, England is known for its high-quality sparkling wines in regions such as Sussex, Kent and Hampshire. So much so that producers like Nyetimber, Chapel Down and Ridgeview have won prestigious awards and blind tastings against famous Champagne houses.
And look closer to home. Suffolk, Essex and even Cambridge produce some award winners. You should add bottles from Flint Vineyard, Wyken Vineyards, Burnt House, Giffords Hall and Shotley to your bucket list.
I think we're lucky that our English countryside creates a perfect map of vineyards. Grapes such as Bacchus, Chardonnay, Auxereau, Pinot Noir and Seyval Blanc thrive in our chalk and sandy soil and rolling hills – just like Burgundy has to offer.
But with climate change ushering in warmer, sunnier seasons (although I'm writing this during a June rainstorm) English vineyards are benefiting from longer growing periods, giving the grapes time to ripen in the late September sun.
Results? A white wine with vibrant citrus, gooseberry and elderflower notes, lively acidity and complex minerality. The finish truly reflects our terroir and gives it a good place in the world's wine lineup.
There's really nothing better than a crisp, elegant glass of sparkling English or the subtle depth of a juicy English Pinot Noir.
I'll take our buzz over France any day.
With all that said, you should know that June marks the celebration of English wine during our dedicated week – June 17-25. So, if you want to taste good English juice, go for Vino Gusto.
Join me and let's raise a glass to the past, present and future of English wine.
Cheers everyone.
A little about myself
Born and raised in Suffolk. On a farm. With four brothers. You'd think I'd go into farming as a career, because it's practically in my DNA…but honestly wine is way more exciting, don't you think?
I began my career in the wine industry about 10 years ago, while climbing the ladder from part-time waitress to manager of a well-established English vineyard and adjacent restaurant. I combined study, university, travel and work for a few years until I discovered the art of winemaking and the joy of opening a delicious bottle of English fizz. From grape to bottle and everything in between, there really is a lot to learn but my journey began here, in Suffolk.
Thank you to Mrs. Carla Carlisle for introducing me to English wine and for starting my career.
Evelyn Wordsworth-Sewell is general manager of wine shop Vino Gusto, 27 Hatter Street, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1NE
Call 01284771831
Visit www.vinogusto.co.uk
