English sparkling wine is now recognised as being among the best in the world, but this year we heard reports that late frosts and unseasonal high winds were causing havoc with the nations vineyards. So we darted off to Dorset to view the vines at Langham Wine Estate and can happily report that all looks good for another great harvest and some more exceptional wines.
Langham Wine Estate is situated in Crawthorne, Dorset, with a south facing aspect and the perfect chalky soil for growing Champagne grape varieties
The vineyards have been planted with three varieties – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier – and their buds were on the verge of bursting into flower when we visited
Trellis wires need to be raised in late spring to give the rapidly growing vines something to latch onto
Inside one of the barns where wines are pressed, fermented and aged in barrels
Langham Wine Estates range of wines includes classic cuvées, rosés and a limited edition blanc de noir
Thanks to Daniel Ham, Langham’s winemaker, for showing us around the vineyards
For more information on the Langham Wine Estate vineyards and a list of stockists visit www.langhamwine.co.uk
[…] visited the Dorset vineyard a few years back and were mightily impressed, and think there’s no better booze to add some fizz […]