English Sparkling Wine

English Sparkling Wine has developed a reputation for vibrant, elegant wines with fine bubbles, fresh acidity and flavours ranging from citrus and orchard fruit to brioche and toasted notes. England's cool climate is particularly well suited to Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, the classic grapes also associated with Champagne.

At Spy, our English Sparkling Wine selection focuses on distinctive bottles from carefully chosen producers. From crisp, aperitif styles to richer vintage and longer-aged wines, these bottles show just how varied and accomplished English sparkling wine has become.

  • Rathfinny Classic Cuvee Brut

    Rathfinny Classic Cuvee Brut

    Rathfinny Classic Cuvee Brut

    75cl | ABV: 12.0%

    £32.95
    £32.95
  • Rathfinny Vintage Rosé Brut

    Rathfinny Vintage Rosé Brut

    Rathfinny Vintage Rosé Brut

    75cl | ABV: 12.0%

    £42.95
    £42.95
  • Blackbook GMF English Sparkling Col Fondo

    Blackbook GMF English Sparkling

    Sold out

    Blackbook GMF English Sparkling

    75cl | ABV: 12.0%

    £29.95
    £29.95
    Sold out

English Sparkling Wine Buying Guide

English Sparkling Wine covers a surprisingly broad range of styles. Grape varieties, vintage, time spent ageing on the lees and the producer's approach can all influence the finished wine, from bright and citrus-driven to richer, toastier and more complex.

Which style of English Sparkling Wine should you choose?

For a fresh aperitif, look for wines with bright acidity, citrus and orchard-fruit flavours. Bottles with longer lees ageing can develop more savoury notes of brioche, toast and pastry, while vintage wines can offer greater depth and concentration. Rosé styles often bring red-fruit character alongside the freshness associated with English sparkling wine.

Why is England suited to sparkling wine?

England's cool climate helps grapes retain the naturally high acidity that is important in quality sparkling wine. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier are widely planted, while vineyard location, soils and an increasingly detailed understanding of individual sites give producers plenty of scope to develop distinctive styles.

Look beyond the biggest English sparkling names

Some of the most interesting English sparkling wines come from smaller producers exploring particular vineyards, longer ageing and individual winemaking approaches. Looking beyond the best-known labels can reveal wines with real personality, whether you prefer something lean and precise or richer and more vinous.

English Sparkling Wine FAQs

How is English Sparkling Wine made?

Many leading English sparkling wines are made using the traditional method, in which the second fermentation takes place in the bottle. The wine then spends time ageing on its lees before disgorgement, a process that can contribute texture and flavours such as bread, toast and brioche.

What grapes are used in English Sparkling Wine?

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier are the principal varieties used by many English sparkling wine producers. Other permitted grape varieties can also be used, so the exact blend varies between producers and wines.

What is the difference between English Sparkling Wine and Champagne?

Champagne can only come from the Champagne region of France and must follow the rules of that appellation. English sparkling wine is produced in England. Many examples use the same principal grape varieties and the traditional method, but differences in vineyards, climate, soils and producer style give the wines their own character.

What food goes with English Sparkling Wine?

Its freshness and acidity make English sparkling wine particularly versatile with food. Try it with oysters, smoked salmon, shellfish, fish and chips or lighter poultry dishes. Richer, longer-aged examples can also work well with roast chicken and more savoury dishes.

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