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Kevin's comments: The background terroir in the
south east of England on the Downs is identical to that of Champagne; a chalky
or limestone outcrop with alluvial clay deposits just below the surface. This
clean and refreshing sparkling wine is made by the traditional method from a
blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meurnier and Pinot Blanc.
ENGLISH WINES GROUP, TENTERDEN, KENT
Based at Tenterden in Kent, English Wines Group is the largest producer of
quality still and sparkling English wines available today. Using a combination
of technical expertise and premium grapes grown on the mineral-rich soil of SE
England, they make a range of award-winning wines bottled under the Chapel Down
label.
Chapel Down is at the forefront of the increased profile and International
success of English wines. A Gold Medal at the 2004 International Wine Challenge
and UK Winemaker of the Year in 2002, 2003 and 2005, proves their obsession with
quality is paying dividends.
Grapes: Reichensteiner 55%, Rivaner(Muller Thurgau) 30% and Pinot Noir
15%
Winemaking: NV Brut is made according to the traditional method.
Grapes are whole-bunch pressed with a cuvee of between 450-500l/tonne being used
for the base wine. The wine spends between 12-18 months on its lees and has 2-3
months on its cork before being released.
Note: Reichensteiner is a high sugar, neutral grape variety, Rivaner
gives a little more spice and the Pinot Noir adds structure and complexity.
Serve: Chilled, makes any drinking occaision more special.
Taste: A well structured wine with hawthorne, citrus and yeasty
flavours and a hint of blackcurrant leaves.The mousse is fine and sustained in
the mouth and glass.
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