Gusbourne Rose 2015

Sale $74.99 

93 pts Wine Enthusiast

I recently offered the Blanc de Blancs to great success... then realized I had a little of the Rose as well! I've written a lot about how global warming has led to previously 'borderline' areas becoming prime real estate for making wine. Almost always, this discussion revolves around vineyards higher up the hill from well-established sites; eg the higher vineyards on the hill of Chassagne-Montrachet, or in Brunello di Montalcino, etc. 

But there is one region above all others where global warming has dramtically altered the landscape, allowing for the launch of an entirely new wine region: England. 

No way twenty years ago would I have dreamt of offering an English bubbly. More expensive than many of the Champagnes I sell? Somebody pinch me, I am dreaming. And yet, here we are. Not only is the price higher, but the quality is as well. Without question, this latest release from Gusbourne stands toe to toe with some of the greatest names in Champagne like Dom Perignon, Krug, etc. At a fraction of the price, it is also an incredible deal. 

Aside from the weather, whose impact cannot be minimized but is easily grasped, the "secret" to England's success is the soil. Even the most casual Champagne drinker has heard tell of the regions limestone chalk soil and how important it is for the distinct minerality and flavors of Champagne. The Champenois have been extremely proud and protective of their name, and rightfully so, because they have felt that no other region could lay claim to the resulting style. Till now. 

Just look at the picture here of the cliffs dotting the English coast in the regions of Kent and Sussex, where Gusbourne's vineyards are. Yep. Chalk. Loads of it. Look at the map and you can see quite clearly that this is the same vein of limestone that dominates Champagne. 

Same soil. Now with the climate Champagne used to have! If there is one bubbly to make a believer out of you, this is the one.

“Red currant notes are framed by zesty lemon and lemon oil on the nose. The palate is tight and slender, still unfurled, with mousse that fizzes excitedly as though it would like to have a little more time in the bottle. The balance, however, is spot-on. Freshness, fruit and body are poised, underpinned by a yeasty, autolytic backdrop reminiscent of freshly baked short crust. " WE


Or reply. The wine is available Wednesday in Chapel Hill. Friday, as ordered, in Hillsborough.