Sussex-based Rathfinny have released their Blanc de Noirs sparkling wine from the 2018 vintage.
While dubbing a stretch of Sussex vineyard close to the English Channel the “Sunshine Coast” may draw a weary smile from those familiar with English summers, for the 2018 vintage, this moniker is apt. 2018 was one of the warmest vintages on record and a game-changer for the English sparkling wine industry.
The plantings of Rathfinny estate extend across 93ha of sheltered coastal vineyards within the South Downs National Park. First planted in 2012, the estate released its first sparkling wine in 2018 and quickly made a name for its blanc de noirs with a then unusually low dosage which quickly became its signature style.
The 2018 Blanc de Noirs is made from 85% Pinot Noir and 15% Pinot Meunier and comes with just 3.5g/l of dosage. “The ripe red fruits and low dosage showcased in this wine are a true reflection of the Rathfinny house style. We can’t wait to share our latest release,” says Sarah Driver, co-owner of Rathfinny Wine Estate. The expressive style of the wine lends itself to food and the estate suggests pairings with “intense umami-sweet flavours delivered by steamed barbecue pork buns, crispy duck with hoisin suace or Japanese nimono dishes."
