It's always nice to be able to give something made locally as a gift. Even better when that local gift turns out to be one of the best in the world.
That's how it is with English wines, not only are they made just down the road but they are consistently winning International medals placing them at the very top of wine production. Also, you don't have to spend a fortune. We've picked some of our favourite gifting wines from the top of the class to the more reasonable, all are delicious and have passed the Hawkins Bros taste test.
Sugrue South Downs Cuvée Dr Brendan O'Regan MV £95.00
Made by Irish sparkling winemaking supremo, Dermot Sugrue, this exceptional wine is named after his Granduncle who created the world's first Duty Free at Shannon Airport. Presented in a beautiful box this is a stunning wine that will keep or taste fantastic now.
Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs 2015 £59.00
This stunning 100% Chardonnay Blanc de Blancs is made by Charlie Holland at Gusbourne near Rye in East Sussex. The thing about Blanc de Blancs is that there is nowhere to hide any faults with the grapes, you have to use the best in the vineyard and really look after it. Presented in a magnificent magnetic closing box, this is supreme winemaking. Matthew Jukes of the Mail on Sunday said, “Tantalisingly sexy, featuring world class fruit and elegance"
Raimes Vintage Rose 2015 £43.00
Gussie and Robert Raimes run this vineyard on their farm in Cheriton, Hampshire and the wine is made by the excellent Emma Rice at Hattingley Valley. 100% Pinot Noir from the 2015 vintage this wine shows some wonderful strawberry fruit on the nose with intense developing brioche as you move through the glass. Dusty pink label and matching presentation box really set off the Rennie-Mackintosh inspired typeface.
Hawkins Bros Brut Reserve 2014 £26.00
We couldn't talk about wine for gifts without mentioning our own gold medal-winning Brut Reserve! A classic blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier with over 5 years ageing in the bottle, grown and made on the Hogs Back in Surrey. Looks the business and tastes great. Also available as a magnum.
Court Garden Classic Cuvee 2018 Half Bottle £17.50
The perfect gift for one. Howard and Hugo Corney run this delightful vineyard on an old dairy farm right by Ditchling Beacon in West Sussex. The wine is delicious and the bottle has just enough bling!
All bottles will be gift wrapped and can come in a gift box, this video shows you how.