When it comes to English wine there’s a lot to shout about, not least the stunning sparkling wines from Henners. Based just 4 miles from the sea in Herstmonceux, East Sussex, the 7-acre vineyard was created in 2007 by ex-Formula One engineer, Lawrence Warr.

Boutinot was the sole distributor of Henners from this time and developed strong ties with the winery and its wines so when the opportunity arose 10 years later to buy the estate, they jumped at the chance. Planted with traditional Champagne varieties of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, the vines thrive in an idyllic microclimate created by the vineyard’s proximity to the sea, low altitude (only 24 metres above sea level) and steep, sunny, south facing slopes.

All Henners wines are hand-crafted from start to finish; with separate fermenting of varietals and their vine clones to allow a broader range of wines for final blending; extended lees ageing for added complexity; and holding back of all bottles for at least 3 years prior to release to add depth and richness to every wine. Hand-crafted with every attention to detail, our winemakers create award winning wines of depth, complexity and elegance that are perfect for any occasion.

Already a founder member of WineGBs Sustainability Programme Henners Vineyard can now announce it is one of just 18 accredited members to have been certified as sustainable by Wine GB. This is an endorsement to Henners commitment to winemaking and winery management that have minimal environmental impact, as well as the ongoing promotion of biodiversity in the vineyards and protection of soils. This is no easy task to attain, requiring annual review for accreditation and ongoing improvement in methodology.

Vineyards

Produced using the classical method, Henners Brut NV is a blend of the three classic sparkling grape varieties, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, grown on both their own clay and neighbouring growers chalk soils which complement each other in terms of generosity and finesse.

Vinification

40% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, 25% Pinot Meunier.

Vine clones and varieties are fermented separately to allow a broad palette of wines for final blending. Approximately 85% of the wine goes through malolactic fermentation. A proportion (10%) is fermented in aged oak barrels to add subtle character and layers to the wine.

These components are blended each year with small proportions of reserve wine to bring additional depth and structure.Aged on lees for 3 years it is an elegant, refined wine with great balance and a delicious citrus and orchard fruit backbone.

Tasting Notes

Benchmark quality which highlights the brilliance of the Henners vineyard and winemaking skills.

Sourdough aromas combine with crunchy green apple fruit to provide a wonderfully welcoming nose. The palate is fine with a lively and persistent mousse. Green apple and pear fruit characters mix with a toasted brioche leesy flavour helping to provide a complex and moreish palate. Balanced acidity and a long finish make this a very classy sparkling wine.

This is a perfect aperitif or celebration wine.