Bolney Estate Bacchus 2019 West Sussex England 75cl

Bolney Wine Estate near Haywards Heath in West Sussex was founded in 1972 and is one of the oldest commercial vineyards in England. Decades of experience have earned it a shelf of awards for both still and sparkling wines, and its Estate Bacchus is one of the styles that first built its name.

Bacchus is a cool-climate white grape that has become something of an English signature, prized for the aromatic, zesty character it develops in the country’s long, gentle growing season. It is a grape that rewards the patient, cool conditions of southern England. Made from 100% Bacchus grown on the estate in Sussex, this wine leans into all that fragrant appeal.

The 2019 vintage was a good year for English aromatic whites, with a warm late summer helping the fruit ripen while the cool nights locked in acidity and perfume. Bacchus tends to be at its best young and fresh, so it is drinking beautifully now.

Expect a vibrant nose of elderflower, gooseberry, cut grass and green herbs, following through to a light, crisp and dry palate. There is a citrus zestiness to the finish that keeps you coming back for another sip. At 12% it is fresh and thirst-quenching, with the lively acidity that makes Bacchus so food-friendly.

Serve it well chilled with goat’s cheese, green salads, asparagus, sushi or fresh seafood. Chill it down and let its aromatics do the talking. It is a benchmark English Bacchus from a genuinely historic estate, and an ideal starting point for anyone new to the variety.