Wines Sussex Rathfinney NV

Viniou Reviews

Rathfinney NV is a non-vintage sparkling wine crafted by Rathfinney Estate in the heart of Sussex, bearing the prestigious Sussex PDO appellation. Produced using the traditional method, this English sparkling wine is likely a blend of classic Champagne grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. The non-vintage style enables the winemaker to maintain a consistent house character by blending wines from several years, ensuring freshness and balance while highlighting the unique English terroir. The secondary fermentation in bottle unveils fine bubbles and intricate autolytic notes, while the wine’s dosage, keeping it as a brut or sec style, delivers a lively, dry palate.

Sussex, located on the southern coast of England, has rapidly emerged as a world-class region for sparkling wine. The area’s cool maritime climate is comparable to that of Champagne a few decades ago, favouring long, slow grape ripening, which preserves acidity and develops refined aromatic complexity. The region’s distinctive chalky soils, remnants of the same seam that runs under Champagne, impart a mineral elegance and finesse to the wines. Sussex’s viticultural history is relatively young but has seen a booming renaissance in recent decades, owing to climate change and the dedication of pioneering winemakers.

This English sparkling wine’s crisp acidity and vibrant mousse make it an outstanding companion for a range of dishes. Locally inspired pairings such as freshly shucked oysters, dressed crab, or delicate smoked trout pâté will harmonise with its saline minerality and citrus lift. For a heartier option, try pairing with traditional English fish and chips—the wine’s brightness will effortlessly cut through the richness. Vegetarian options like asparagus with hollandaise sauce or a goat’s cheese salad are also beautifully complemented.

For optimal enjoyment, serve Rathfinney NV well-chilled, ideally between 6 and 8°C, in tulip-shaped glasses to enhance its aromatic expression and lively effervescence. Allow the wine a moment to open in the glass and savour its elegant intricacy.