Who makes it?

Tesco Finest English Sparkling is made by the makers of Hush Heath Estate, part of Kent’s vibrant winemaking community. It is great choice for choosing the producer of their own brand of English fizz. Undoubtedly, very safe hands considering the extensive range of fizz that they make at Balfour all carrying the Hush Heath mark on the neck or the label.

How do they make it?

This is a typical blend from the Champagne trio. That being Pinot Noir (48%), Chardonnay (47%) and an enriching dollop of Pinot Meunier (5%). It has been made using the traditional method which really just means that the second ferment to capture those bubbles is done in the bottle and left to rest on the dead yeast cells (or lees) for around a year. This is not quite as long as you would expect from a Champagne, but it does give just a enough softening pastry spice and mouthfeel to the wine. The feeling in the mouth is also softened by a dosage of 10g/L of sugar.

What does it taste like?

There is a distinct elderflower floral note amongst the lemon, apple and bread and butter aromas. This is a very crisp wine despite the softening and balancing effects of the sugar. Nonetheless, it finishes with a sweep of dryness and a biscuity floral length. Consequently, it is as refreshing as it is fresh.

What to drink with it?

This is a remarkable wine that will assuredly go with a very wide range of flavours. From scones, blueberry jam and clotted cream, to a pasta with cream and scallops or some light appetisers. Smoked salmon on lime muffins anyone?

Country of Origin: Kent, England 
Tasting Date: July 2021
Price:  UK £19 
Drink: now 
Needs food: no
Source: sample

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