Nestled within the rolling hills of the South Downs, Rathfinny Estate has quickly established itself as a leading producer of English sparkling wine. Their Rosé 2019 is a testament to their dedication to quality, showcasing the unique terroir of their Sussex vineyards and the meticulous craftsmanship employed in their winemaking. This blend of Pinot Noir, Meunier, and Chardonnay grapes creates a sparkling rosé that is both captivating and refined, a true celebration of English winemaking.
Rathfinny’s Rosé received 91 points (Silver) at the recent International Wine Challenge.
The Rathfinny Vineyard: The Foundation of Excellence
Rathfinny’s vineyards, planted on the chalky slopes of the South Downs, benefit from a unique microclimate and soil composition. The chalky soils, similar to those found in Champagne, provide excellent drainage and impart a distinct minerality to the grapes. The estate’s south-facing slopes maximize sun exposure, ensuring optimal ripeness and flavor development. These carefully selected vineyard sites, combined with sustainable practices, create the ideal conditions for producing high-quality grapes.
Winemaking Mastery: From Grape to Glass
Rathfinny employs traditional winemaking methods, combined with modern techniques, to craft their exceptional sparkling wines. The grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, ensuring the delicate flavors and aromas are preserved. Gentle pressing and careful selection of the cuvée (the first press) contribute to the wine’s elegance and finesse.
The secondary fermentation, which creates the wine’s signature bubbles, takes place in the bottle, following the traditional method. Extended lees aging, where the wine rests on its yeast sediment, adds complexity and richness to the final product. This meticulous process, overseen by a team of experienced winemakers, ensures that each bottle of Rathfinny Rosé 2019 is a true expression of the estate’s commitment to quality.
A Delicate Dance of Flavors and Aromas
The Rathfinny Rosé is a symphony of delicate flavors and aromas:
Appearance
A captivating pale salmon-pink hue, with a fine and persistent mousse.
Aroma
An inviting bouquet of ripe strawberries, raspberries, and white peach, intertwined with subtle notes of brioche and floral hints.
Palate
A crisp and refreshing palate, with vibrant acidity balancing the ripe fruit flavors. The red fruit notes are prominent, complemented by a subtle minerality and a long, elegant finish.
Culinary Pairings: A Versatile Delight
The Rathfinny Rosé versatility makes it a perfect partner for a wide range of culinary experiences:
Seafood Delights
Its crisp acidity and delicate fruit notes pair beautifully with salmon, prawns, oysters, and other shellfish.
Light Appetizers
Enjoy it with charcuterie, salads, goat cheese, or smoked salmon.
Poultry and Gam
Its elegance complements roast chicken, duck, or game birds.
Summer Desserts
Pair it with desserts featuring strawberries, raspberries, peaches, or other summer fruits.
Celebratory Moments
It’s equally delightful enjoyed on its own as a celebratory aperitif.
A Celebration of English Sparkling Wine
Rathfinny Rosé is more than just a sparkling wine; it’s a testament to the dedication, passion, and expertise that goes into crafting exceptional English sparkling wines. From the carefully tended vineyards to the meticulous winemaking process, every aspect of its creation reflects the estate’s commitment to quality and sustainability. It’s a wine that embodies the elegance and charm of the Sussex Downs, offering a truly memorable tasting experience.
