Raimes English Sparkling Blanc de Noirs 2018

For a producer that, in homage to Pol Roger, planted their vineyards predominantly with Chardonnay, it is ironic that this cuvée made solely from Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier has become a signature for the estate.

Raimes’ sparkling wines are concentrated and complex, yet elegant and delicately sophisticated, across the range. This Blanc de Noirs from the golden vintage of 2018 is no exception. It is just at the beginning of its drinking window, and boasts aromas of crunchy red apple skin and freshly baked almond croissant. In the mouth it is bone dry, and beautifully well-balanced between red berry fruit and those rich pastry impressions, superbly fine bubbles, and moreishly saline acidity.

With its divinely elegant label, this is a seriously fine English Sparkling Wine that would impress the crowd at even the most exclusive party.