Collette studied Viticulture & Oenology at the UK’s prestigious Plumpton College and then worked in wineries in New Zealand, California and South Africa to hone her winemaking skills. When she joined Henners, Collette could immediately see the potential in Sussex for growing extraordinary winemaking grapes, particularly where the Henners hectares are nestled in the South Downs.

Sussex has a warm climate and soil types similar to Champagne. Champagne lies on the 49th parallel north while the Sussex Weald lies on the 51st parallel north. Sussex has many south-facing slopes, which are suitable for growing the grape varieties found in sparkling wine, such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier.

One of the world’s most popular grapes, Chardonnay is made in a wide range of styles from lean, sparkling Blanc de Blancs to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak.

Depending on how ripe the grapes get, the flavour ranges from crisp, clean citrus and green apple, to ripe peaches and tropical fruit. Notable Chardonnays can be found in France, California, Australia, England, and beyond.