This is the first release from a new English sparkling wine producer, Black Dog Hill. This is a vineyard based in Ditchling, East Sussex, at the foot of the South Downs. Here, the three Champagne varieties are grown on chalky soils, and the 5 hectares of vines were planted in 2007.

This wine was disgorged in 2015 after 33 months on the lees, and it’s really nice.

Black Dog Hill Classic Cuvee 2011 Sussex, England
Bright and citrussy with lovely pear, white peach, bread and subtle toast notes. There’s a hint of ripe apple here, but the key driver is a lovely citrus core. Lively but quite elegant and balanced, with a bit of structure. A lovely wine. 91/100 (£28.95 SWIG)