NV Fairmile Vineyard Classic Cuvee

In 2011, Jan and Anthea Mirkowski recognised that the foothills of the Chilterns on the outskirts of Henley would provide the ideal terrain and microclimate for viticulture. Henley-on-Thames even has a similar climate to Northern France, whose capital of the Champagne Region, Epernay, lies just 150miles south in latitude. The relatively cool nights enable grapes to retain the acidity essential for sparkling wines. In 2013, they planted the same three grape varieties which traditionally go into the world’s greatest fizz – Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. Fairmile Vineyard uses the traditional method (the same moethod as used in Champagne) of secondary fermentation in-bottle where it takes at least three years for added yeast and sugar to generate millions of bubbles and an added layer of flavour from the lees.

The Classic Cuvee Pale lemon-yellow hue, tight bubbles; red and yellow fruits, buttered croissant overlay; on the palate very dry, green apple dominant, lively acidity, creamy mousse texture, medium body, good persistence and quite long.