The United Kingdom may not be the first country that leaps to mind when one thinks of winemaking regions, yet it boasts a rapidly growing and highly respected wine industry. Particularly lauded for its high-quality sparkling wines, the UK produces across many vineyards in England and Wales, combining traditional viticulture with modern winemaking techniques.
At the forefront of UK’s wine production are regions such as Kent and Sussex. They’re known for their iconic chalky soils – similar to the auspicious terroir of Champagne in France – which greatly contribute to the distinctive, refined taste of their sparkling wines.
Interestingly, climate change also seems to be playing a favourable role in the expansion of UK’s vineyard area. With the rising global temperatures, the traditionally cooler UK climate is seeing longer growing seasons which, in turn, are yielding more consistent and higher quality grape harvests.
The UK’s growing reputation in the wine world is just the tip of the iceberg and there is much more to its wine culture that’s certainly worth exploring. For a comprehensive guide on UK’s wine scene, visit Forest Glen Winery.