Non-Vintage British Sparkling Wine: A Reasonable Choice for Wine Enthusiasts
A question I often get asked by my fellow British wine enthusiasts is how do I drink British Sparkling wine without breaking the budget? The truth is that all British wine comes with a price tag. Several factors contribute to the cost of British wine. Firstly, the climate in the UK is not as conducive to grape growing as in some traditional wine-producing regions, leading to lower yields and potentially higher production costs. Additionally, land and labour costs in the UK can be relatively high. Importing equipment and expertise for winemaking may also add to expenses. Finally, smaller scale production and limited economies of scale can contribute to higher prices compared to larger wine-producing regions. You are however left with a high-quality artisanal product which in my opinion is absolutely worth the price tag. I also often ask myself when looking at bottles of wine under £10, how is this so cheap? and who is taking the cut when it comes this low-price tag? This may sound all very doom and gloom but there is a way to add British Sparkling wine into your cellar without breaking the bank or setting foot into a supermarket.
When it comes to sparkling wine, many connoisseurs immediately think of Champagne from France. However, in recent years, the United Kingdom has emerged as a formidable player in the world of sparkling wine production. While vintage English sparkling wines are celebrated for their exceptional quality, there is another option that offers great taste and affordability: non-vintage English sparkling wine. In this article, I will explore the world of non-vintage English sparkling wine and why it has become a more reasonable choice for wine enthusiasts.
The Rise of English Sparkling Wine
In recent years, the English wine industry has turned the wine world upside down (or should we say inside-out?) with its sparkling creations. With climate and soil conditions akin to the Champagne region of France, parts of southern England have become a sparkling wine paradise, an ideal location for growing the traditional grape varieties used in sparkling wine production: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.
Non-Vintage vs. Vintage Sparkling Wine
In the world of sparkling wine, vintage and non-vintage options offer distinct experiences. Vintage sparkling wines are made from grapes harvested in a single exceptional year and are aged for a longer period, resulting in a wine that reflects the unique characteristics of that vintage. These wines are often considered the pinnacle of quality but also come with a premium price tag.
Non-vintage sparkling wines, on the other hand, are blended from grapes harvested in different years. This blending process allows winemakers to create a consistent and reliable product year after year. While non-vintage wines may lack the complexity of their vintage counterparts, they offer a delightful and accessible taste of English sparkling wine at a fraction of the cost.
Affordability without Compromising Quality
One of the key reasons non-vintage British sparkling wine is a more reasonable option is its affordability. Vintage sparkling wines can be quite expensive due to their limited production and the time they spend aging in cellars. Non-vintage varieties, however, are more budget-friendly without compromising on quality.
These wines often exhibit a fresh and crisp profile, with vibrant acidity, delicate fruit notes, and the hallmark effervescence that sparkling wine lovers adore. They are perfect for everyday enjoyment, celebratory toasts, and pairing with a variety of foods.
Versatility and Accessibility
Non-vintage British sparkling wine's versatility and accessibility make it an attractive choice for wine enthusiasts. Whether you're sipping it on its own or pairing it with seafood, poultry, or even cheese, non-vintage sparkling wine can elevate any occasion. Its approachable price point allows more people to experience the pleasure of British sparkling wine without breaking the bank.
While vintage British sparkling wines continue to capture the hearts of wine aficionados, non-vintage varieties have emerged as a more reasonable option for those seeking quality sparkling wine without the premium price tag. The British wine industry's dedication to producing world-class bubbly has made these wines accessible to a broader audience, allowing more people to savour the delights of British sparkling wine.
Non-vintage British sparkling wine isn't just reasonably priced; it's also incredibly versatile and accessible. Whether you're celebrating a promotion, a cat's birthday, or just a successful Tuesday, this sparkler is your go-to companion. It pairs with almost anything – seafood, poultry, cheese, or your favourite takeout. It’s a reasonable and delightful choice that showcases the UK's growing prowess in the world of wine production. Here is my top selection for non-vintage wines all under £35 a bottle.
This is one wine that should be in every enthusiast’s cellar. Clean and linear with a nose of baked apple and red apple skin, fresh biscuit, and baked shortbread. The palate offers a precise backbone and bright acidity which give’s this wine an elegance and finesse. This structure is perfectly complemented by ripe red apple, pear and buttery lemon tart and a mix of red summer fruits. Brioche and hints of fresh biscuit form the profile edge.
Leslie’s Reserve Brut NV £35 RRP
Leslie’s Reserve Brut a predominantly Chardonnay has a distinctive aromatic and spicy quality, this is due to the tiny percentage of Pinot Gris added into the blend. Full of citrus, green apple, some herbal elements and toasty brioche flavours. Fermentation in stainless steel tanks and full malolactic fermentation before ageing on lees for a minimum of 12 months. Perfect choice with fish and chips!
Langham, Corallian NV RRP £30.95
A firm favourite of mine and a great option for further ageing. Made from base vintage of 2020, with addition of 21% reserve wines. Chardonnay dominant at 88%. Bright lemon and lime, bruised apple and delicious minerality and saline qualities.
An absolute steal of a price! Higher in Pinot Noir then most of the NVs so expect more strawberries and cream. Three years on lees so full of creamy breakfast pastries and brioche. Sumptuous!
Greyfriars, NV Sparkling Cuvee RRP £22
Fresh and fruity, intense lemon, apple and mineral flavours. Beautiful crisp finish. Perfect to pair with fish and seafood.
Albourne Multi Vintage RRP £27.95
Made from selected base wines, from multiple vintages. Approachable and enjoyable style. Classic combination of three grape varieties and three years minimum ageing. Christmas Panettone aromas, dried apricots nuts and citrus peel.
