Ridgeview 'Bloomsbury' South Downs Brut NV

World-class sparkling wine made in the heart of Sussex, England? Impossible, many thought! But they were wrong… founded in 1995 by Mike Roberts and family, Ridgeview has grown from one family’s dream to a producer of acclaimed wines that have won several prestigious international awards, become the official sparkling wine of Downing Street, and been enjoyed by Queen Elizabeth II and numerous international heads of state. The original Ridgeview estate sits just beneath the South Downs Ridge, an ideal spot for growing chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier. Grapes from the estate are supplemented with fruit from select partner vineyards across the south of England, all expressing the cool maritime climate and the chalk, clay, gravel, and sandstone soils. ‘Bloomsbury’ is made from 61% chardonnay, 27% pinot noir, and 12% pinot meunier, all hand harvested and fermented in stainless steel, with a portion of the base wines undergoing malolactic fermentation prior to blending with recent vintages and reserve wines. Secondary fermentation takes place in the bottle, with an average of 18 months spent on the lees. ‘Bloomsbury’ embodies the Classic Method English style, with a fresh, fruit-forward profile, fine mousse, and bright, refreshing finish. Lively aromas of creamy citrus mingle with delicate hints of white peach, melon, and honey, while the palate bursts with crisp apple and elegant brioche notes. Delicious now, this will also age gracefully. Low-intervention/natural wine, vegan.