Hindleap Blanc de Blancs Brut, Bluebell Vineyard Estates 2015

Country
United Kingdom
Region
Southern England
Producer
Bluebell Vineyard Estates
Grape(s)
Chardonnay (100%)
Type
Sparkling
Style
Fizz
Oaked Style
Unoaked
Body Style
Light bodied
Dry/Sweet Style
Bone dry
Alcohol Content
12%
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
The Hindleap vineyard was planted in 2005 on chalk and sandstone soils adjacent to the Bluebell Railway and fringes of the Ashdown Forest. Like Champagne, it is produced by the traditional method, re-fermented and aged on the lees for 52 months. This vibrant Blanc de Blancs uses the estate`s best Chardonnay grapes slowly matured to capture a fine mousse and crisp citrus palate preceded by aromas of quince, brioche and elderflower. This wine has a balanced acidity which works beautifully for a vibrant finish even after time ageing.
Food
A fine aperitif and good accompaniment to olives, smoked nuts, asparagus, crab salad or grilled sea fish, roast chicken and soft cheeses.
Media
Silver medal at Decanter World Wine Awards 2019.