Gusbourne Blanc de Noirs 2020 is a rare example of this style. The wine has a unique intensity and weight which is dominated by lavish fruit, raspberry, blueberry and cherry notes. There are fresher elements of citrus and apple along with candied fruit notes which add to the depth of flavour. It is a hedonistic wine which is both powerful and elegant. Bottled in April 2016 and lees aged for 67 months.

Founded in 2003 by Andrew Weeber, Gusbourne cemented its place as one of England’s finest producers of English sparkling wine in 2010, with their maiden release of Brut Reserve 2006 and Blanc de Blancs 2006. A combination of excellent vineyard locations in Kent and West Sussex, unique microclimates and Burgundian clones has ensured that they continue to produce excellent wines that delight drinkers year in, year out. Production is centred around the main three grape varieties used in Champagne: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. This trio provide all the ingredients necessary to make wines with the balance, elegance and poise you’d expect from top sparkling wine. Small, old oak barrels are also used sparingly during fermentation to add more richness and complexity to the wines.