Fizz by the sea – English sparkling wine with a deserved reputation!

Another first class example of how English sparkling wine is really building a deserved reputation.  From chalky vineyards in East Sussex, this is a racy, elegant and refined bottle fermented, vintage sparkling wine.
henners_brut_reserve
2010 Henners Brut Reserve

2010 Henner’s Brut Reserve

Owned and run by Lawrence Warr  who originally hailed from the world of Formula 1, the estate and wine are named  after Lawrence’s French ancestry – Henners Dubois – who were forced to flee France during the French revolution.
Henner’s is based in Herstmonceux in East Sussex.  After a lengthy search for the right soil type and structure, the site was identified as a prime location on sandstone and chalk soil just 4 miles from the sea and 25 metres above sea level.   The vineyard was planted in 2007 and the new winery followed in 2009. Today the grape mix planted is 40% Chardonnay, 39% Pinot Noir and 21% Pinot Meunier – all three classic Champagne grapes.  The winemaker is Ben Murray.
This is Henner’s top – or reserve – blend (they also produce and fine and zesty Brut NV style).  Fine notes of white berries, brioche and red apple, with an overall quite rich, balanced mouth feel and a refreshing finish.
A natural aperitif  with canapés, but – as we also often say – great with delicate shellfish and sushi.
It’s also suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
  £32 each
Nick Adams MW