Exploring Chapel Down Rosé from England
Chapel Down is one of England’s leading and best known winemakers. It is based in Small Hythe near Tenterden and comprises 25 acres of vineyards set amongst the beautiful rolling Kent countryside. Chapel Down is an official supplier of No 10 Downing Street and was the first English wine served at Ascot racecourse.
Notes on Chapel Down
The Pinot Noir grape is harvested from Kent, East Sussex and Essex where it is grown on chalk and clay soils. Once in the winery a cool fermentation in stainless steel tanks occurs followed by a partial malolactic fermentation. Maturation occurs for 6 months on fine lees before bottling. There is a further ageing process of about 18 months before being released to market.
A beautiful and delicate sparkling rosé with fruity notes of fresh strawberries, cherries and red-currants accompanied by background notes of toasty shortbread. The notes of strawberries follow through onto the palate with a hint of creamy vanilla. The palate is focused and pure and finishes crisp and fresh. It is therefore great as an aperitif but also pairs perfectly with seafood, light pasta dishes and summer fruit desserts.