Discover the still wines of Britain: Stoltz’s three to try
Danbury Ridge, Chardonnay, Essex 2021 (£34-£42.50 Widely available) Essex is the driest county in England and benefits from the heat of the Thames Basin, factors that help Pinot Noir and Chardonnay thrive consistently and enrich their characteristics – a superb alternative for those who are into red and white Burgundy. Aromas of cedar and light tobacco open into butterscotch, lemon curd and orange blossom. The palate is round and creamy, balanced with crunchy acidity.
Renishaw Hall, Walled Garden White, Derbyshire 2022 (£17.25-£19.25 English Wine Project, Weavers) In the 1970s, Renishaw Hall was crowned the most northerly vineyard in the world. It was risky, planting vines that far north, but it paid off. The varieties used are ‘PiWi’ grapes, which are mega-resistant to fungus and other diseases, so winemaker Kieran can work very sustainably. This blend of Madeleine Angevine and Solaris showcases tropical and stone fruit aromas and flavours, accentuated with refreshing citrus notes. I love this wine because it shows what England offers with minimal intervention.
Ancre Hill, Orange Wine, Monmouthshire, Wales 2022 (£26.70-£29.99 Grape Britannia, Les Caves de Pyrene) It’s pretty bonkers that Ancre Hill is certified biodynamic, especially with weather patterns like those in Wales. However, owners Richard and Joy knew just how to make it happen. The hills surrounding the vineyard create rain shadows and the vines were planted on a slope to avoid clogging. I love this orange wine – which is based on Albariño and Chardonnay – for its juicy texture and tropical, savoury notes. It’s a fun example of how winemakers like to play around with what they have planted. www.magazinesdirect.com/C82M