News Story
To mark English Wine Week this year, we spoke to our partners at Gusbourne, who are celebrating 20 years of producing award-winning wines. Recent recognition includes Walpole British Luxury Brand of the Year and the Chairman’s Trophy at the Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships – the first time this prestigious award has been given to an English producer. Based in Appledore, Kent, Gusbourne craft vintage-only wines from grapes grown exclusively in its own vineyards.
So, to enjoy English Wine Week, start by opening something delicious! For a classic expression of Gusbourne’s style, Laura Rhys, Master Sommelier, recommends Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs 2020. Serve it well chilled with fresh seafood, grilled scallops, lemony roast chicken or a generous summer salad.
Blanc de Blancs is always one of the purest expressions of our estate. The 2020 has beautiful citrus brightness, precision and poise, but also enough depth to make it wonderfully versatile at the table.
Laura Rhys, Master Sommelier at Gusbourne
For Mary Bridges, Gusbourne’s Head Winemaker, English Wine Week is also a chance to celebrate the craft, patience and ambition behind each bottle. Her choice for the week is Gusbourne Brut Reserve 2022: expressive, generous and full of energy, it captures the warmth of a sunny vintage and is made for easy summer drinking – from garden lunches to pre-theatre glasses.
Every Gusbourne wine begins in the vineyard. We work with the fruit we grow ourselves, and every vintage gives us a different story to tell.
Mary Bridges, Head Winemaker at Gusbourne
To enjoy English wine at its source, visit Gusbourne for yourself this summer for a guided estate tour, tutored tasting or seasonal lunch surrounded by vines and views across the Kent countryside. Gusbourne shares CFT's love of creativity and memorable experiences, from raising a glass before the show to visiting Appledore to discover the story behind each bottle.
