Hambledon, England’s oldest commercial vineyard, has a reputation for quality and that reputation is upheld through its Classic Cuvée Rosé – a truly outstanding example of sparkling rosé.
The colour is a pale pink with a red hue, and it presents wild strawberry and forest fruits on the nose. There’s further fruitiness on the palate with definite lemon and a continuation of the strawberry. The finish has hints of creaminess combined with a clean, earthiness.
The Hambledon Classic Cuvée Rosé is made with a non-vintage blend of 90% Chardonnay and 10% Pinot Noir. Most of the grapes are from the Hambledon Estate in Hampshire and are selected for quality. The vineyards of Hambledon are located in the prolific South Downs which is now widely recognised in the industry for its chalky geological conditions which match those of Champagne.
Managing Director of Hambledon, Ian Kellet, has said that he is “delighted” with this wine and is proud that the company has managed to “showcase the quality of the Chardonnay from our South east-facing chalky slopes.”
The Hambledon vineyard was originally established by Major General Sir Guy Salisbury-Jones in 1952. Hambledon wines have been enjoyed all over the world and the estate boasts a strong relationship with Champagne producer, Pol Roger. Hambledon has undergone a multi-million pound redevelopment with the goal of producing the best possible multi-vintage English sparkling wines and is now home to is the only fully gravity fed winery in the UK.