The surprising country that’s a must-visit for sparkling wine lovers

Beyond the borders of France, England stands out as an unexpected yet thriving hub for sparkling wine that is capturing the attention of enthusiasts worldwide

If it weren’t for our eldest child begging to walk on the roof of our luxury Hobbit-style house, my husband and I could play the leads in our own romantic movie. We’re snuggled together in a hot tub with a glass of Oastbrook Sparkling Cuvée 2014 in hand, admiring the view of the vineyard spread out before us. When the kids join us, we explain once again that, although we are staying in what essentially looks like a home inside a hill, walking on top of the hill is not allowed.

The aptly named Vineyard Hollow is one of three accommodation types at Oastbrook Estate Vineyard, alongside the newly built Avalon Lodge and the option for luxury camping during the warmer months.

English roots

Oastbrook is the creation of first-generation winemakers, Nick and America Brewer, a dynamic husband and wife duo who planted their first vines in 2018. In today’s English wine scene, sparkling wines dominate but, at Oastbrook, it’s mainly varietals – 10 still wines and two sparklings: the vintage cuvée 2014 we sipped in the spa and a Rosé 2015. America mentions that the world has recently started taking note of English winemaking, with industry insiders predicting that this is the year English sparkling wine will be laid down, not just for the domestic market but also for future export.

My research confirms that the English wine scene is booming, and the world is starting to take notice. Wines from Sussex, Kent, Surrey, Devon, Cornwall and Hampshire have all won coveted awards in recent years, with sparkling varieties often claiming top honours. This is not surprising, as over two-thirds of wines made in the UK are of the sparkling variety. Also (and do take note), the Sussex and Kent coasts lie just 130 km north of France’s Champagne, with the geological composition of chalk subsoil and the orientation of the south-facing slopes being remarkably similar.

While French Champagne – widely regarded as the pinnacle of sparkling wine – traces its origin to Dom Perignon’s chance discovery in 1693, the English are believed to have introduced bubbles to wine as early as 1662. Although these historical reports are debated, I’m fascinated that sparkling wine was probably first made on this side of the English Channel.

Memorable tastings

Gusbourne was awarded World Champion Classic Vintage Brut at The Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships in 2022 and, when we visit, Laura Rhys, master sommelier and global ambassador, explains that the team is committed to producing some of the very best sparkling wines on the market. “We own vineyards in both Kent and Sussex, giving us full control over our vineyard management and resulting in the best quality fruit to create some truly exciting wines,” she says.

As with Oastbrook, a visit entails more than just drinking wine. It’s about spending time touring the vineyard, chatting with staff, and enjoying moments at the cellar door. Although I only have a half-day at Gusbourne, I time it to include lunch, and I’m treated to one of the best pairings I’ve ever experienced. The flavours are exceptional, with a unique interplay of textures and other elements resulting in a sensory sonata.

“While French Champagne – widely regarded as the pinnacle of sparkling wine – traces its origin to Dom Perignon’s chance discovery in 1693, the English are believed to have introduced bubbles to wine as early as 1662.”

Wine and wellness

In the realm of luxury travel, food and wine are inherently intertwined, and with the recent explosion of UK wineries gaining prominence in this arena, the choice for a solo trip is far from easy. I settle on Denbies Wine Estate in Surrey for a variety of reasons. Beyond the lovely hotel on-site and Denbies being one of England’s largest single estate vineyards known for its quality wines, what attracts me is that within the estate there are various businesses doing their own thing – from pilates and tai chi at SHP Health to the quaint Village Greens Farm Shop.

Chimney Fire Coffee is the newest gem in Denbies’ crown, and the pairing of coffee and wine is a match made in heaven for someone like me. While I enjoy my leisurely strolls through the expansive grounds and indulge in a delightful charcuterie-style lunch, my standout moments are those intertwined with my two favourite drinks of choice.

Between exploring wines with cellar master Andy Kershaw, and sampling coffees with the founder of Chimney Fire Coffee, Dan Webber, I also make a point of conducting my own solo tastings. There’s a certain charm in savouring stillness, sitting with a glass of sparkling or a cup of coffee in hand, appreciating the new, while acknowledging its roots in age-old traditions.

Journey notes

Singapore Airlines operates over 110 flights per week from seven Australian cities to Singapore, connecting to 28 flights a week to London Heathrow. singaporeair.com

Stay and play at Oastbrook Estate and experience unique accommodation and delicious wine. oastbrook.com

Wine and dine offerings at Gusbourne are some of the best in the UK. gusbourne.com

Experience a diverse range of activities and enjoy great wine and coffee at Denbies Wine Estate. denbies.co.uk

Experience a diverse range of activities and enjoy great wine and coffee at Denbies Wine Estate. denbies.co.uk