Blanc de Blancs - 2016
Gusbourne
4.20 / 5.0
- Type
- white sparkling, brut
- Region
- England, England
- Producer
- Gusbourne
- Vintage
- 2016
- Disgorged
- 2021-06-04
- On lees
- >42 months
- Grapes
- Chardonnay
- Alcohol
- 12
- Sugar
- 8.3
- Price
- 3300 UAH
- Cellar
- not available
Gusbourne's approach to winemaking is one of patience, skill, and respect for the natural processes. Their wines are crafted using the traditional method, a testament to their commitment to preserving and enhancing the character of their grapes. The Blanc de Blancs 2016, a product of this approach, is made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes grown in their Kent and West Sussex vineyards. These vineyards are characterized by diverse soils, including clay with sand and seashell subsoils in Kent, and predominantly chalk soils with flint loam in the South Downs of West Sussex. The microclimate is warm and dry, moderated by coastal breezes, creating an ideal environment for the grapes to thrive. The wine undergoes fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and a small percentage in old oak barrels, adding complexity to the flavour profile. After fermentation, the wine is aged on the lees for a minimum of 42 months.
Ratings
4.20 / 5.0·750 ml·@Wix Kyiv Office · Classy bubbles Vol. 3
This wine reveals itself to be intriguingly complex upon closer examination. Initially perceived as simple, it gradually unveils a majestic character with time and attention. The bouquet is creamy, and filled with pear candy, ripe grapefruit, brioche, and white flowers. The palate is complex, delicious, and subtly saline, offering flavours of nectarine, green apple, cream soda, hazelnut, and bread. It features a long and evolving aftertaste that confirms its depth. Overall, the wine is round and well-balanced, showcasing an elegant transformation from seemingly straightforward to impressively regal.
Wine #5 on Classy bubbles Vol. 3 event.
Gusbourne
Gusbourne Estate, founded in 2004, is nestled in the regions of Kent and West Sussex, England, and has rapidly established itself as a prominent producer of fine English sparkling wines. The estate prides itself on exclusively using grapes from its own vineyards, spanning 60 hectares in Appledore, Kent, and 30 hectares near the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex. These vineyards are cultivated with high-quality Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes, predominantly Burgundian clones known for yielding smaller volumes but intensely flavourful fruit. This choice of grape varieties and clones reflects a deliberate approach to harnessing the unique microclimates and terroirs of the regions, essential elements in crafting their award-winning wines. The estate's commitment to quality was evident from the outset, with its debut 2006 vintage released in 2010 receiving critical acclaim.
The philosophy at Gusbourne is deeply rooted in a sustainable, low-intervention approach to viticulture, led by Chief Vineyard Manager Jon Pollard. This approach focuses on nurturing the vineyards with minimal interference, allowing the natural qualities of the fruit to shine through. The estate's emphasis on hand-picking the best quality grapes showcases their dedication to precision and care in the vineyards. This meticulous attention to detail extends to their winemaking practices, which are guided by stringent standards. The process involves pressing the grapes in whole bunches, blind-tasting, blending, and extended ageing on lees. This traditional methodology has earned Gusbourne the accolade of being the only three-time winner of the IWSC English Wine Producer of the Year. The overarching philosophy is to let nature lead the way, fostering a harmonious balance between the land and the wine.