English Wine

English wine has developed into one of the most exciting parts of the modern wine world. While English sparkling wine has earned an international reputation, producers are also making increasingly impressive still wines from vineyards across the country. Our selection brings together distinctive English wines from small producers, from traditional-method sparkling wines to fresh whites, rosés and characterful still wines, chosen for their quality and individuality.

English Wine Buying Guide

English wine has changed enormously over the past few decades. A cool climate, improving viticulture and a growing number of ambitious producers have helped England establish a reputation for excellent sparkling wine, while still wines are becoming increasingly interesting too. Choosing English wine is less about looking for one particular style and more about exploring the grapes, regions and producers behind the bottles.

What style of English wine do you enjoy?

English sparkling wine is the country’s best-known style, often combining bright acidity and fresh citrus or orchard fruit with more complex brioche and toasted notes from ageing. Still wines are increasingly worth exploring too, particularly fresh whites, delicate rosés and lighter reds. Start with the style you normally enjoy, then explore the English producers putting their own character into it.

Why is England good for sparkling wine?

England’s cool climate helps grapes retain the high natural acidity that is so important for fine sparkling wine. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier are widely planted, and many producers use the traditional method, with a second fermentation in bottle. The result can range from crisp, youthful styles to complex wines with greater richness and depth from extended ageing.

Look beyond English sparkling wine

English wine is no longer only about sparkling wine. Producers are making increasingly impressive still wines, from aromatic whites and elegant Chardonnay to delicate Pinot Noir and rosé. Styles vary considerably between vineyards and vintages, making England an exciting region to explore. As ever, we choose bottles for their character and quality rather than simply because they are English.

English Wine FAQs

What is English wine?

English wine is wine made from grapes grown in England. The country is particularly well known for traditional-method sparkling wine, but producers also make still white, rosé and red wines from vineyards across southern England and beyond.

Why is English sparkling wine so good?

England’s cool climate allows grapes to ripen while retaining high natural acidity, an important quality for sparkling wine. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier perform particularly well, and many producers use the traditional method, with a second fermentation and ageing in bottle.

What grapes are used in English wine?

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier are particularly important, especially for sparkling wine. England also grows varieties such as Bacchus, which can produce fresh, aromatic white wines, alongside a growing range of other grapes suited to the country’s cool climate.

What food goes well with English wine?

English sparkling wine is extremely versatile with food and works particularly well with seafood, shellfish, canapés and fried dishes. Fresh English whites can pair beautifully with fish, salads and lighter dishes, while Pinot Noir and other lighter reds can work well with poultry, pork and mushroom dishes.