Sparkling Wines Sussex Windsor Great Park - 2014 - 2022

Windsor Great Park’s sparkling white wine, bottled here in its 2022 vintage under the Sussex appellation, is a fine expression of the rapidly ascendant English sparkling wine tradition. While the blend is described as “Cuvée 2014”, it suggests that the base wine may stem from an earlier vintage, but as this is not entirely clear, it is safest to appreciate this bottle as a contemporary reflection of the Sussex terroir. English sparkling wines are commonly crafted from classic Champagne grapes such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, using the traditional method which lends them remarkable finesse and elegance. This brut style promises a lively acidity, crisp orchard fruit, and delicate toasty aromas, complemented by a finely textured mousse.

Sussex, nestled in the rolling hills of southern England, enjoys a cool maritime climate moderated by the English Channel. The region’s characteristically chalky and flint-rich soils provide excellent drainage and impart mineral tension to the wines, reminiscent of Champagne’s own terroir. While England’s winemaking history extends back to Roman times, it is in the past two decades that Sussex has established itself as a pre-eminent sparkling wine region, winning international acclaim for its vibrant, expressive wines. The interplay between the marginal climate and meticulous vineyard management produces sparkling wines with a refreshing balance and distinctive English character.

Given its refined bubbles and fresh, elegant profile, this Windsor Great Park sparkling blanc is perfect as an apéritif, bringing a celebratory lift to any occasion. It pairs brilliantly with fresh seafood—oysters, dressed crab, or delicate smoked salmon. For a taste of the local larder, try pairing it with chilled Sussex charmer cheese or classic English fish and chips, where the wine's acidity will cut beautifully through the richness.

For best enjoyment, serve well-chilled at 6-8°C. This will allow the wine’s crisp structure and fine bubbles to shine, revealing subtle layers of citrus and toasted brioche, and making for a thoroughly refreshing, contemporary English experience.