English fizz adds demi-sec for Christmas

English wine producer Ambriel has added a second new expression to its range this year with the introduction of a demi-sec sparkling wine.

Called “English Reserve”, the 29g/l demi-sec has been made from 100% Pinot Noir harvested from a single vineyard on the West Sussex estate. Based on the 2010 harvest, it has spent three years maturing on its less before being disgorged on 23 April 2014.

The expression, whose first release is just 1,000 bottles, has been launched in time for the Christmas season and positioned as an ideal partner for plum pudding as well as the traditional wedding cake match for demi-sec.

Noting the UK market’s historic penchant for demi-sec Champagne, Ambriel’s owner Wendy Outhwaite QC remarked: “It’s called English Reserve because that is what we English are famous for. We are hoping to tingle some stiff upper lips!”

Carrying an RRP of £32.50 per bottle, English Reserve is available from UK merchant Lea & Sandeman as well as the English Wine & Spirits Co, which champions the country’s growing number of domestic brands, and Ambriel’s own online shop.

This latest addition to the Ambriel range follows the brand’s launch of a blanc de noirs in September. Ambriel’s maiden release, its Chardonnay-led “Classic Cuvée”, arrived on the market in summer 2013.