England is seeing a resurgence of wine growing, especially with sparkling wines. It has a long history of winemaking, as do many European countries that were part of the Roman Empire. England’s wine-growing regions are limited, as is the case with northern France and Europe. The cold and rainy climate relegates wine grape production to the southern tier of England, from Cornwall to Kent.
Hierarchy of English Wine.
England and Wales can follow the EU model for wine production with its three quality tiers: PDO, PGI, and Wine. Producers can be granted certification by the EU using this three-tiered system. Wines produced in Sussex county can also obtain the Sussex Quality Wine designation.
Historic Tidbit.
The term Claret originated in England and historically referred to wines from Bordeaux.
Recommended Signature Wine.
For a recommendation, try a white sparkling from Sussex made from the traditional Champagne grapes, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, as they all do well in cooler climates. Expect a wine with fine bubbles, good acidity, fresh aromas of apples, citrus, fresh bread, and yeastiness, with notes of mineral, chalk, and stone.
Appellation of Note
Sussex (East and West Sussex): produce high-quality sparkling wine, sparkling blends, and rosé.
Classification
English wine: a term on labels representing true-to-form wine, a sparkling wine made in England with English grapes.
British wine: a term found on labels and designates low-quality, sweet wine made from fruit juice or concentrate from anywhere in the world.
Traditional or Traditional Method: a term found on labels for sparkling wine produced with primary fermentation and bottling followed by a second fermentation in the bottle by adding several grams of yeast and sugar. This second fermentation is what makes bubbles.
Note: when serving Lambrusco, Cava, Champagne, or delicious English sparkling wine, chill it to the ideal temperature. This Laser Wine Thermometer reads the internal temperature of the wine in the bottle before you pop the cork!!  Â
