English Wine Week is the perfect time to try the nation’s home-grown crop. We asked Laurence Walker from Hedonism Wines in Mayfair to share his top picks
“Two of my top English sparkling wines are Nyetimber’s single vineyard Tillington, and Charles Palmer’s Classic Cuvée. This is a blend of the traditional champagne grapes, chardonnay and pinot noir. It’s rich, toasty and perfect for a special occasion or for serving alongside meatier white fish.”
With investment pouring into the industry, and more and more bars, restaurants and even supermarkets offering English wine, the future is looking bright for producers and connoisseurs alike – and English Wine Week is the perfect excuse to indulge!
Taste around the estate
Exploring Mayfair and Belgravia can be thirsty work, so why not take a break from your sightseeing and shopping to enjoy little local libation?
The Goring offers Ridgeview Bloomsbury Brut on its wine list. This classic blend of the three champagne grapes is a light golden colour with a fine, persistent mousse. It’s perfect for enjoying with your pre-dinner canapés.
Hélène Darroze at The Connaught lists Gusbourne Estate’s Brut Reserve, a sophisticated and balanced sparkling wine. Treat yourself to a glass with your caviar course – Oscietra Royal with oyster, sea urchin, cockles and dashi.
Seafood aficionados love Scott’s on Mount Street, which stocks Hambledon Classic Cuvée, made in Hampshire. This vibrant wine has fresh sourdough, magnolia and lily scents on the nose, mingling with a hint of smoke, greengage, red plums and dessert apples. It’s perfect with smoked salmon.
The English climate may present challenges for winemakers, but a perfect summer’s day is something to be celebrated. Pop into Jeroboams on Elizabeth Street for a bottle of Nyetimber Rosé, pick up a picnic from nearby Baker & Spice, and while away the afternoon enjoying the sunshine in Eaton Square Gardens.
