WINE REVIEW
2013 was a remarkable vintage for English Sparkling wine and a real blessing after the disastrous 2012. The latest batch of wines from Wiston Estate in Sussex may be younger than anything they have previously released, but they are no less rich or captivating.
The 2013 sees the blend bias swing away from Chardonnay (33%) towards Pinot Noir (47%) and the remainder being Pinot Meunier (20%). The bottle I tasted was disgorged just over 3 months prior to tasting with a dosage of 8g/l.
The bottle popped with pleasing force, leading to lively and gushing bubbles that lift aromas of sweet brioche, baked apple and ripe apricots.
To taste, the Cuvée has wonderful balance and poise; an intense fresh acidity and crisp citrus zing awakes the taste buds and livens the senses. Then, a ripe fruit fusion of baked apple and sweet apricot, paired with that unmistakable savoury depth that Pinot dominance can bring to a Cuvée blend. Nutty pastry notes on the finish; lengthy and involving!
As with winemaker Dermot Sugrue’s very best wines, the poise and striking acidity is the standout quality in this wine – and ensures a wonderful ageing potential for the 2013.
