Windsor Great Park's sparkling wine, produced within the prestigious Sussex appellation, is a hallmark of the modern English wine renaissance. Although details surrounding the precise blend are not explicit, sparkling wines from Sussex—especially those marked as “Brut” and “Cuvée”—are often crafted employing the traditional method and inspired by Champagne, typically using grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. The 2016 vintage, noted as “Cuvée 2017” on your bottle, suggests a thoughtful blending and maturation process, likely resulting in a wine that delivers fine bubbles, a crisp backbone, and layered complexity, with possible notes of citrus, orchard fruit, gentle brioche, and a refreshing mineral-driven finish.
The Sussex region stands at the forefront of English sparkling wine production, thanks to its cool yet sunny climate that extends the growing season and encourages high acidity in grapes—an essential attribute for top-quality sparkling wines. The south-facing slopes and well-drained chalky or clay soils bear striking resemblance to those of Champagne, which, combined with the maritime influences, create a uniquely expressive terroir. English vineyards like Windsor Great Park bring both centuries-old heritage and a contemporary approach, while the history of viticulture in Sussex stretches back to Roman times, now enjoying a remarkable revival in the 21st century.
When thinking about food pairings, the elegant structure and bright acidity of Windsor Great Park’s sparkling wine make it a wonderful companion for a range of dishes. Classic pairings include freshly shucked oysters, smoked salmon, or delicate crab, all perfectly matched to the wine’s finesse and refreshment. For a regional match, consider Sussex sparkling paired with local goat cheeses or pea and mint risotto. Its versatility also allows it to cut beautifully through lightly fried fish or even traditional British fish and chips.
To fully enjoy the wine’s effervescence and aromatic nuances, serve well-chilled at 6–8°C. A tulip-shaped sparkling wine glass is recommended to concentrate the aromas and preserve the mousse. If possible, open the wine with care, allowing it to reveal its delicate charm and finest bubbles over the course of your meal or celebration.
