Chapel Down Grand Reserve 2019

Chapel Down makes world-class wines from grapes grown in the South East of England where the geology and climate combine to provide the perfect terroir for sparkling wines. The first vines were planted at Tenterden in the late 1970's and the vineyard has been continuously producing English wines from this site ever since. Chapel Down now has a large acreage under vine in Kent and beyond.

Wine-making: Chapel Down Grand Reserve goes through cool fermentation in stainless steel followed by full malolactic fermentation. A portion of this wine is from reserve stocks which has been stored in barrel and tank which adds complexity and depth to the palate. Maturation then takes place on fine lees in tank for 6 months before bottling and a minimum of three years further ageing on lees in bottle.

Weather in 2019: Winter rains enabled the vines to take full advantage of good soil moisture levels during spring growth. This was topped up during the season by regular rainfall, which helped to maintain optimum levels of nutrition in the vines. Dry and warm weather at the end of June allowed for successful flowering over a short period of time, resulting in even fruit-set. Good weather in August continued uniform fruit development across the vineyards. Slightly cooler weather in September and October allowed for a slow ripening period that created the composition of varied and complex flavour profiles. Harvest commenced at the end of September and was complete by the middle of October.

Technical Information:
Vineyards: 95% Kent and 5% East Sussex. Grapes are grown on chalk and clay soils.
Grape Varieties: 60% Chardonnay, 28% Pinot Noir & 12% Meunier
Lees Ageing: 3 years
Disgorged: 2023
Dosage: 9 g/l
Alcohol: 12%
Drink: Now to 2030

Tasting Note: Complex aromas of ripe apples, red berries and toasted brioche are complimented by a rich palate and generous finish.