Bordeaux, the Napa Valley, Montepulciano, the Cape Winelands – there are some corners of the world which are synonymous with wine, Bognor Regis, the Brecon Beacons and Exeter are not usually amongst them. In fact, there are no regions of the UK with a particular global pedigree for wine. But this could soon change...
Home-grown sparkling wines have been enjoying an especial surge in popularity in the UK over the past decade, thanks to our warming climate and the chalky limestone soils of many parts of southern England. But it's not just bubbles which are being brewed up on British soil, regions including Surrey, Essex and Kent have been producing some very respectable still wines too.
So is it high time that you wrapped your mouth around some fine British wine? We'd argue yes – here are four good reasons to persuade you to pick up a bottle!
1. They're rare
If you love exclusive products, British wine is the tipple for you. Because Britain is not yet home to huge producers like more famous wine-producing countries, the yields are much smaller, which makes each bottle all the more special. For those who love to research and collect wine, this makes British produce a very enjoyable area to explore – you'll need to be quick to snap up the very best stuff. The experts claim the UK only produces about six really good pinot noirs at the moment.
2. They're made with passion
Because British wine is still in the process of taking off, most vineyards are owned by small independent producers. Typically run by individuals or families, these winemakers are all plying their trade for their love of wine and of home-grown produce, which infuses the product with passion and love.
3. They're award-winning
English sparkling wine in particular has been doing increasingly well on a global stage. In 2016 a number of sparkling wines picked up top prizes in international wine competitions, with many other bottles earning approval and accolades from critics.
4. They're evolving
With 40 applications for new vineyards made to HMRC in 2016, it's clear that British wine is growing. As the industry grows and matures, older vineyards will finesse their approach to wine and their understanding of making the product in a British climate, while new vineyards will inject freshness and creativity into the industry. This is a very exciting proposition for wine lovers. While classic wine-producing regions produce subtly, beautifully different vintages every year, British wines are far more creative and interesting to watch as they develop.
