Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier
75cl * 12% ABV * Sussex, England
Once a working arable farm, Rathfinny Estate was founded in 2010. Its thin, clay loam soils over chalk echo those of the Champagne region, a mere hop and skip over the Channel, which provide the ideal conditions for growing grapes for sparkling wine production. In just over a decade, Rathfinny has become one of England's premier sparkling producers and we are delighted to have it in.
Rathfinny 2018 Classic Cuvée is the third vintage of their ‘house-style’ Sussex Sparkling, made in the traditional method from hand-harvested Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay grapes. This vintage underwent malolactic fermentation and spent 36 months ageing on its lees after bottling to develop a creamy texture and rich, biscuity aromas.
A lovely buttermilk golden hue, the nose entices with delicate ginger and cinnamon spices, white plums and toasty aromas. The palate is rich white apricot and crème pâtissière with nuances of preserved lemon on the finish. Refreshing and moreish.
The 2018 vintage is a superbly versatile foil to the fresh flavours of linguini with clams and fennel right through to duck prosciutto and ham hock terrine.