Highlights from the annual Wine GB press tasting

I had an hour to attend the @winegb press tasting – but it was worth it! Such an exhilarating event.

I was able to taste aged sparkling  AND I also discovered new grape varieties and awesome WELSH Wine!

Some highlights:

Sparkling 

The one to watch:
@denbies_wine_estate Blanc de Blancs, Surrey,  2017 £34.95 –  This wine has just been released and it is gorgeous. Golden fruit, hint of vanilla, lemon pith brightness combined with a satisfying umami undertone. A truly gastronomic wine. 

New Winery Find:
@woodchestervalleyvineyard , Reserve Cuvée, Gloucestershire, 2021  £35.00 – So appley, approachable, juicy and joyful. I can’t wait to check out this winery next time I am visiting my parents in the Cotswolds. 

WHITES:

Old Faves:
@simpsonswine , The Roman Road Chardonnay, Kent,  2023 32.00 – succulent baked apple, vanilla pod, juicy acidity and a delectable nutty undertone make this a MEGA chard at fantastic value.

New winery Find:
@mousehall_country_estate , Tidebrook Medieval Monk Pinot Gris , 2023, £28.00 – baked pear, pulpy texture reverberating with citrus zest. Beautiful.

I also adored their Chardonnay but I do think Pinot Gris is becoming a grape to increasingly look out for in the UK.

RED

Classic fave: 
@balfourwinery , Signature Pinot Noir,  Kent, 2022  £45.00  – Mulled plum mingles with clove spice, and smoky tobacco.

New Grape for me:
@arteliumwine, Artefact (cabaret noir,) Sussex, 2023  £30.00 – Indulgent mocha infused plums lifted with violet brightness. Soo interesting and fun.

And a couple Welsh highlights! Wales now have over 30 producers making quality wine!

@welshwines ,  Pinot Noir Reserve,  Monmouthshire, 2023 £50.00 – Juicy, spicy berry compote enlivened with orange rind.

@thedellvineyard , Y Leidr ( The Thief)  Rosé, Monmouthshire, 2024  £24.00– 
Voted the best still rose in Wales 2023 in the Welsh Wine Awards, this beautiful blush pink Welsh wine is full of fleshy melon and apricot fruit with a sprinkling of lime sherbert. 

Can’t believe I tasted all this and much more in an hour. Wine GB – you are in such an exciting chapter!