FOOD + DRINK
FOR MANY OF US , CHRISTMAS WOULDN ’ T BE COMPLETE WITHOUT A VARIETY OF PERFECTLY PAIRED DRINKS . WE SIP BUCK ’ S FIZZ AS THE PRESENTS FROM UNDERNEATH THE TREE ARE OPENED , ENJOY WINES WITH NOTES OF CINNAMON AND SPICE ALONGSIDE CHRISTMAS DINNER , AND RELAX WITH A GLASS OF SOMETHING CRISP AND REFRESHING TO END THE FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS WITH .
Beyond our tried-and-tested Christmas favourites of mulled wine and eggnog , there ’ s an evergrowing world of artisanal and limited-edition festive drinks to enjoy . Kent itself is home to around 50 vineyards , each leading wine production across the UK with their rich history of producing exceptional bottles and blends . This festive season , there ’ s no better time to explore what Kent ’ s vineyards have to offer in the way of still and sparkling wines .
Whether to deepen the dinnertime experience with complementary pairings for your favourite Christmas foods , or to enjoy by the fireplace as you unwind from the day ’ s events , here are the very best of Kent ’ s most acclaimed tipples to enjoy this Christmas .
SIMPSONS WINE ESTATE , BARHAM
Occupying the sunny slopes of Elham Valley in the North Downs of Kent , Simpsons Wine Estate planted their roots in 2014 . The estate ’ s Roman Road Vineyard with 10 hectares of chardonnay , pinot meunier and pinot noir sits alongside the route that Romans first marched during their invasion of England in AD 43 , bringing with them the very first vines . Simpsons ’ lime-rich chalk soil is the perfect habitat for producing award-winning still and sparkling wines , which guests can enjoy on the Winery Tours and Tasting Experiences that are often held at Simpsons ’ vineyard .
Best for … A breakfast of smoked salmon and eggs
Flint Fields Blanc de Noirs 2020
With a golden hue and a fine , persistent bead , this wine has indulgent citrus peel aromas . It meets the palate with notes of rosehip , hints of frangipane and wonderful savoury nuances . Created from the exclusively estategrown Pinot Noir Clone 115 , this wine is bone dry with a smooth , elegant finish .
GUSBOURNE ESTATE , APPLEDORE
First planting their vines in 2004 , Gusbourne Estate grows the highest quality chardonnay , pinot noir and pinot meunier grapes using sustainable practices and a down-to-earth philosophy . With 60 hectares in Appledore and a further 30 within the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex , their Burgundian vines yield intensely flavourful fruit that ’ s handpicked by their skilled team . Gusbourne promises care , craft and uncompromising attention to detail with every bottle , and are the only three-time winners of the IWSC English Wine Producer of the Year award .
Best for ... A classic Christmas starter
Brut Reserve 2020 Vintage
Gusbourne ’ s best-selling wine , the 2020 Brut Reserve Vintage is an especially plush , bright gold blend highlighting red fruit aromas of cherry and strawberry . Developing into fresh pastry notes with a touch of cinnamon and spice , the 2020 Brut Reserve has a clean palate and a long , refreshing finish ; a very flexible partner for traditional English food pairings .
CHAPEL DOWN , TENTERDEN
Chapel Down are the leading English winemakers , producing still and sparkling wines from their Kentish vineyards in the picturesque market town of Tenterden . Their chardonnay , pinot noir , pinot meunier and Bacchus vines grow on the southfacing chalky soils of Kent ’ s North Downs , thriving in the warm , maritime climate . With a world-class winemaking team , guided tours and overnight stays , the Chapel Down estate is a must-visit for all wine lovers in Kent . www . insidekent . co . uk • 119