Who makes it?

Roebuck Estates draw their grapes from their vineyards across West Sussex to the south of London. This particular Blanc de Noirs is created from grapes from their Roman Villa vineyard close to Petworth, one hour to the south west of the edge of London. This vineyard was planted early in the conception of the estate, back in 2007 and is a mix of Burgundian and Champagne clones of Pinot Noir. 

The Estate focuses on producing a small range of sparkling wines.  One, the rosé, received is a trophy international competition winner.  

How do they make it?

The pinot noir was whole bunch pressed and a portion of the must was fermented in French oak. As a traditional method sparkling wine, after bottling for the second fermentation, the wine spent 36 – 48 months or more on lees, or the dead yeast cells. 

A dosage of 5 g/L residual sugar smooths out the wine and adds balance.

What does it taste like?

In the glass, the Roebuck Estates Blanc de Noirs is a very pale salmon bronze colour with a fine line of delicate bubbles. Delicate floral notes lifts the aromas of citrus and berries. It is a richer style of fizz with a lush cream and strawberry palate with a finish of nuts. Well balanced, generous and soft. A fine English fizz.

What to drink with it?

Enjoy this vintage sparkling either on its own, or with some light meals such as smoked salmon or poached salmon, grilled salmon, a chilled terrine or a quiche.

Cheese?

A classic match is Brie or Camembert which matches the nuttiness on the finish.

Quickie review « A fine English fizz that is a richer mouthful so that you can keep drinking it throughout lunch or starters. »

Country of Origin: West Sussex, England 
Tasting Date: July 2021
Price:   UK£45 
Drink: now – 5+ years
Needs food: no
Source: tasting

Like the sound of this Roebuck Estates Blanc de Noirs, you might enjoy one of these other English Sparkling wines.

Visit Roebuck Estates for more information.