Sussex is one of the newest regions on the global wine map. Here, not far from the gentle slopes of the South Downs, you can while away a few days visiting England’s answer to Champagne. Among the medieval villages, with their gastropubs and country hotels, is a handful of seriously good wine estates. Bolney, Nyetimber and Ridgeview all offer tastings and tours, making up England’s very own wine route. And down in the Cuckmere Valley is Rathfinny — soon to be the UK’s largest wine estate — where you can sip sparkling wine only a few miles from the English Channel.
2010 Nyetimber Classic Cuvée
£31.99, Waitrose
Undoubtedly one of England’s star sparkling wines. Its rich and creamy style seems to get better every year.
Wiston Brut NV
£24.95, Corney & Barrow
Bone dry, with champagne-style toasty notes, this is a wonderful wine that is clearly going places.
