rating B+
standout new, award-winning winery
about Ruth and Charles Simpson bought property in Kent in 2012, the first vintage released from 2016. This is a very new project, an example of the dynamic nature of the English wine industry. They’ve already won several awards and have been committed from the beginning to sustainable farming. One to watch.
wines tasted
“Chalklands” Classic Cuvée NV ($57)
45% Pinot Noir, 20% Chardonnay, 35% Meunier. 18 months on lees, with 5g/l dosage. Non-vintage, with 20-30% reserve wines aged in barrels; Very citrusy, with notable zesty, orange peel aromas, followed by a toasty finish.
“Canterbury” Rosé 2021 ($70)
100% Pinot Noir. 20 months on the lees. Always vintage. 7g/l dosage, although with a very drying finish due to the racy acidity. Very pale appearance, this is essentially a Blanc de Noirs rather than a rosé. Mature and smoky, lifted by soft red fruit aromas.
website
phone +44 1227 832200
address The Barns, Church Lane, Barham, Canterbury
