2015 The Grange Classic, Hampshire, Dry English Sparkling Wine

With 30 acres of vines in the Hampshire downland, 5 miles east of Winchester, it is the deep chalky subsoil that is key to the success of the superb Grange Estate sparkling wines. Acting like a sponge, it stores water from the winter for the heat of the summer. It also imparts a steely minerality, finesse and precise structure to this “Classic” sparkling wine. A blend of 55% Chardonnay with 28% Pinot Meunier and 17% Pinot Noir, it fermented 85% in stainless steel tanks, with 15% in oak barrels. 33 months of lees-ageing in bottle has contributed a beautiful complexity to this 2015 wine (disgorgement was in February 2019). Pale silver-gold colour with lively bubbles, aromas recall lemons, red berries, baked apple and honeyed brioche. Palate is clean, full and generous, with satisfying layers of flavour, the finish being long, harmonious and crisp.