England, UK

Hand-harvested grapes for our Hattingley Valley Classic Reserve were whole bunch pressed to extract top quality juice. This wine is based on the 2015 vintage and comprises 53% Chardonnay, 31% Pinot Noir and 16% Pinot Meunier. Some 19% of the total blend was barrel fermented in old white Burgundy barrels and partial malolactic fermentation took place in order to soften the wine’s natural acidity. To ensure the consistency and continuity of our signature style, 23% of reserve wines (that had naturally softened and developed over time in oak barrels and stainless steel tanks) were added to the blend before secondary fermentation. After three years ageing on lees in a bottle to add roundness and character, the wine was disgorged with a light dosage of 7g/L.

Our Classic Reserve is pale gold in colour with delicate and fine long-lasting bubbles. The beautifully complex bouquet combines aromas of green apples with creamy nougat, freshly baked brioche and delicate toasted notes from ageing in bottle. On the palate, the complexity continues with notes of soft lemon sherbet, biscuit and a subtle oak character. Refreshing and perfectly balanced, with a delightfully long finish. - Emma Rice, Hattingley Valley