Danbury Ridge, Pinot Noir

Alcohol percentage: 13%

Area:
Danbury Ridge is in east Essex (the other side of Chelmsford) between the Blackwater estuary to the north and the river Crouch to the south. They proudly and rightly say this is the warmest and driest part of England.
Most of the vineyards (Octagon, Polo and Sleipnir) are on the estate but some (like Spar Hill Vineyard) are a little further east, towards the sea. Soils are sandy gravel over London clay.

Grape variety:
Pinot Noir, de-stemmed but not crushed, before fermentation at cool temperatures, matured for a year in French oak (from Francois Frères, 40% new wood).

Producer:
Michael and Heather Bunker already lived on the estate when they realised its potential for vineyards in 2012. They set about the conversion with extraordinary enthusiasm. Their masterstroke was to employ the thoughtful and intelligent Liam Idzikowski as winemaker, previously at Lyme Bay. They have also brought John Atkinson MW on board as a consultant, firming up their desire to concentrate on the single aim of producing England’s best still wines.

The Bottle Shop rating:
Yes, this is obviously expensive Pinot Noir! But it’s from an estate making tiny quantities, with no expense spared in the process. It also happens to be of truly exceptional quality – breaking new ground for English still wine.

Please note the last day for guaranteed Christmas delivery is the 19th of December. After this date we unfortunately cannot guarantee that your order will arrive in time for Christmas.