Produced from 100% Chardonnay in the exceptional 2020 harvest, only the most expressive fruit was selected for barrel fermentation. Using a combination of new and old French oak the wine was fermented and aged in barrel for 6 months before being blended together and bottled in late 2021.
2020 was a glorious vintage in England. During the season winemaker Collette O'Leary identified parcels of vines showing the greatest potential, with good flavour development, ripeness and acidity balance.
The Henners team hand harvested these grapes which were pressed direct to barrel for fermentation. The wine was then aged in barrel for 6 months, then bottled and rested for six months before release.
The nose has apple, lemon and stone fruit aromas with some toasty and buttery notes and a citrus streak. The mouth is full of delicate spice and creamy, textural richness from time spent in barrel.
The freshness and natural acidity of the wine gives this excellent ageing potential and it is a great match for food. Pair with roast chicken, cheese souffle or grilled fish.
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 crips, clean citrus and green apple, to ripe peaches and tropical fruit.
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