Sparkling Wines Sussex Nyetimber - Tillington Single Vineyard - 2013

Viniou Reviews

Nyetimber’s Tillington Single Vineyard 2013 is a superb English sparkling wine made exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes, hence the mention "blanc de noirs". This particular cuvée hails from the celebrated Tillington vineyard within the Sussex PDO, renowned for producing high-quality fruit. Crafted using the traditional method with a prolonged maturation on lees, this 2013 vintage combines complexity, finesse, and remarkable intensity. In the glass, it reveals seductive notes of red apple, wild strawberries, brioche and a refined mineral undertone, delivered with a creamy mousse and precise acidity.

The Sussex region is fast becoming England’s leading terroir for sparkling wine, owing to its proximity to the Channel and a unique mix of chalk and greensand soils, echoing the best sites in Champagne. The cool, maritime climate here encourages slow grape ripening, preserving freshness and developing subtle aromatic complexity. Nyetimber, one of the pioneers of English sparkling, has played a key role in the rise of Sussex’s reputation over recent decades, crafting wines that rival many prestigious French counterparts.

This blanc de noirs style is ideally matched with foods that can stand up to its structure and depth. Pair it with Sussex-charcuterie, roast guinea fowl, or a fillet of trout with beurre blanc. For something quintessentially English, try potted crab or smoked salmon blinis. The wine’s vibrant acidity and fine bubbles also handle the richness of mushroom risotto, or even elevates classic roast chicken. Cheeses like young Sussex Charmer or mild goat’s cheeses will further draw out its elegant fruit.

Serve this wine well-chilled, ideally at 8-10°C, to showcase its freshness and complex aromatics. Open just before serving or, if using flutes, consider decanting very gently to allow its bouquet to unfold. This sparkling wine is drinking beautifully now but will also reward a little more ageing for those who appreciate mature, autolytic notes.