It all starts with the Gusbourne winery, which is quite remarkable. Founded only in 2004, it has clearly made its mark on the international sparkling wine scene in less than twenty years. It was established in Ashford, Kent. Yes, the United Kingdom. Not the first wine country you might think of. However, a growing number of independent winemakers are deciding to venture into the world, thanks in part to the effects of climate change, which are making viticulture in the south of England increasingly feasible.
Gusbourne's vineyards are located in Kent, as well as in west Sussex. Their plantings are unique, as they feature only three grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. True wine lovers will immediately recognize this. These are the three most important grapes used in Champagne, the delicate sparkling wine from France. The growing conditions in Kent are comparable to those in Champagne, which is why Gusbourne chose these grapes.
This Gusbourne Blanc de Noir is a sparkling wine made exclusively with Pinot Noir. Before the bottles leave the Gusbourne cellars, the juice (made exclusively from the finest Pinot Noir grapes) is aged for a full 27 months in the Gusbourne cellars. It then spends another six months aging in the bottle. The comparisons to Champagne are therefore numerous.
Brace yourself: this is truly a masterpiece from the winemaker. A stunningly fine sparkling wine that will make many Champagnes envious. From the very first opening, we're enchanted by the delicate aromas. A hint of violets in bloom tickles our fancy. Dried, candied fruit dominates. Complexity abounds. The palate is a feast of flavors. Small red fruits like raspberry and red cherry alternate with candied orange peel and baked red apple. Despite its complexity, you still taste plenty of citrus, giving Gusbourne Blanc de Noir a refreshing edge.
United Kingdom
