Gusbourne Estate has become a standard-bearer of high quality English sparkling and still wines. The estate sits on the low slopes of the ancient Kentish escarpment at Appledore, consisting exclusively of south-facing slopes. This, their Blanc de Blancs, proves how good 100 percent Chardonnay sparkling wines can be in England.

It has apple and lemon citrus, that elusive “minerality” which should be a hallmark of such sparklers, and the refreshing acidity that makes you come back for more. A dash of complexity and mid-palate richness and leesiness, down to a generous three years on lees and subsequent bottle age, completes the picture. But the quality clincher is the balance – all is in place for very agreeable drinking.