Today we share the oldest sparkling wine producer in England. Hambledon Vineyard was originally planted back in 1952 by Major-General Sir Guy Salisbury-Jones. Hambledon is set in the 'Cradle of Cricket’ and vines are planted on chalky soils that resemble some found in champagne. In fact, the soils are the Newhaven Chalk formation that developed between the Santonian and Campanian eras of the Upper Cretaceous period (known as the Senonien period in Champagne). The same chalk, with the same Belemnite content, is found in some of the most famous Chardonnay areas of the Côtes des Blancs in Champagne. Hambedon has a very impressive winemaking team. Hervé Jestin has overseen the production of more than 200 million bottles of Champagne and sparkling wine during his career and was chef des caves at Champagne Duval Leroy for over 20 years.
The new wines by Jestin were really good and saw some extended less aging. I love the new NV Hambledon Rose Sparkling Wine (OB, 91) which is fruity and fresh with a soft mouthfeel. Learn more about this historic winery at https://hambledonvineyard.co.uk/ and here are my reviews of the new Hambledon wines.
NV Hambledon ‘Classic Cuvee’ Sparkling Wine- An amazing effort, the NV Hambedon ‘Classic Cuvee’ Sparking Wine is shining brightly right now. Aged on the lees for 35 months, this combines Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier sourced from South East facing chalk slopes of Windmill Down, in the historic village of Hambledon. Rich and generous on the mouth, the silky mousse entices. Ripe red raspberry and Pink Lady apple fruit flavors mingle well with lemon zest and chalky soils on the palate. Drink 2025-2031- 91
NV Hambledon Rose Sparkling Wine- Loaded with crunchy red fruits, the NV Hambedon Rose offers bright cranberry, tart cherry and red raspberry notes alongside salty and stony minerals on the palate. With a soft mousse and gobs of great finesse, this is best enjoyed now and over the next few years. Drink 2025-2031- 91