With one in 10 people choosing to celebrate with English fizz during the recent Jubilee Bank Holiday weekend, Majestic has picked out a selection to try during English Wine Week. Majestic’s Master Of Wine and Buyer, Elizabeth Kelly, said: “We have a perfect climate for sparkling wines, as the cooler growing season helps to keep that zippy freshness in the wines.
"We’ve got those chalky soils, like Champagne, and some incredible winemaker expertise. Plus the grapes are very similar to those used world wide for incredible fizz. It’s a perfect mix”.
Majestic English Sparkling wine sales have been growing at 56%. These are Majestic's top picks for summer 2022:
Chapel Down Sparkling Bacchus 2020/21, England (£17.99 Mix Six, £19.99 per bottle)
Prosecco-lover? Try this. It’s made in the same method, but is unmistakably English (it has a kind of hedgerow nettle-y tang which is a real thrill). Softly sparkling, with a zippy freshness - it’s ideal as an aperitif on a hot, summer afternoon.
Nyetimber Rosé NV (£41.99 Mix Six, £46.99 per bottle)
True English class in a flute. Nyetimber is one of the leading names of English wine, with internationally acclaimed winemakers, Cherie and Brad, at the helm. This example shows exactly why — taking the runaway success of Sparkling Rosé and giving it a unique twist. Expect summer-fruit flavours with a creamy softness - incredible with a cream tea (if you’re feeling extra quaint).
Chapel Down Rosé (£26.99 Mix Six, £29.99 per bottle)
The biggest, and for many, the best English producer. Chapel Down have been pushing boundaries in Kent for years, to international success. This crisp rosé is lusciously juicy — an unusual, but excellent choice, with barbequed mushrooms.
Balfour 1503 Brut (£19.99 Mix Six, £24.99 per bottle)
One of the new leading-lights of the English wine movement. Balfour have been gaining plaudits for their approachable, enjoyable styles. Lovers of fine art in their vineyards - these wines are a true English masterpiece of freshness, baked apple character and a racy, indulgent finish. Incredible with fish and chips (trust us).
Definition English Sparkling (£22.99 Mix Six, £27.99 per bottle)
The Definition range seaks to showcase the “world’s most iconic winestyles”. 20 years ago, to have even thought of including an English wine in that category would have been almost laughable. Now, however, the wines have earned their place at the table - and this example has beautiful crisp acidity with a rich, nutty depth from additional bottle ageing. A serious wine, perfect for top-table celebrations.
Definition Sparkling Rosé (£23.99 Mix Six, £28.99 per bottle)
The Definition Sparkling Rosé showcases all that is exciting in this on-trend category. Like a berry compote, with a red apple twist - it’s light, refreshing and looks incredible on Instagram. Enjoy it with risotto - or on its own (preferably under a late, evening sun).
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Nyetimber Classic Cuvee (£36.99 Mix Six, £41.99 per bottle)
One of the most highly decorated, and universally loved, English Sparkling Wines. Nyetimber is now exported around the world - but still arguably tastes at its best in the country it grew up in. A long-term Majestic favourite, this is absolutely a rival to any big-name Champagne - and deserves appreciation in its own right for its beautiful brioche and crunchy green apple character. Perfect with a village cricket match, straight from an ice cooler.
