England & Wales Flashcards
When did modern grape growing in England start?
After the second world war (late 1940s).
When did traditional Champagne grapes first start to gain traction in England & Wales?
During the late 1980s.
Due to the rise in sparkling wine production in the UK, what % of grapes grown are Champagne varietals?
About 70% of all production.
What is the general quality level of UK sparklers?
Very-Good to Outstanding! With prices at premium to super-premium levels.
What is unique about England & Wales’ growing enviroment?
All the vineyards in the UK are above the 50th parallel. Which results in long daylight hours and an overall cool climate.
What percent of all UK vineyards are in southern England?
About 85%.
What is the climate of England?
Cool, Maritime.
What is it about the climate has changed that has allowed English grapes to thrive?
The average growing season temperature has risen from 55F in the middle of the last century, to 57F in this century. This has allowed producers to ripen fruit more consistently in the recent years.
What are some issues England has to worry about besides grapes not ripening?
Heavy rain and Spring frost. Due to the popularity of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir (early ripening/budding grapes), the potential for spring frost has increased dramatically.
Site Selection for English vineyards?
-Grape growing at northern latitudes means that south-facing slopes are best for maximizing exposure to sunlight.
-Site Selection should concentrate on finding sites with maximum shelter from prevailing winds that are generally from the south-west.
- Good drainage to avoid regularly wet soils and root zone.
-Altitude below 125m above sea level.
What are the soil types of English sparkling wine?
Soil composites vary. Clay is the predominant soil in Kent and parts of Sussex, with high water-holding capacity and fertility. The soils of Sussex and Hampshire have significant amounts of chalk. This offers good drainage and lower fertility.
What is the preferred type of vineyard trellising for Englands vineyards?
The Guyot System with Vertical Shoot Positioning. Planting density is moderate.
What is unique about UK Sparkling wines’ yields?
There is massive vintage variation. Overall yields are typically 24 hL/ha. This is one factor why the finished wines are so expensive.
What is the minimum lees aging requirement for UK sparkling wines?
Nine months (in like with EU regulations for quality sparkling wine with a PDO)
Is malolactic conversion popular in the UK?
Yes. Many wines have very high acidity, and MLF helps to soften the wine.
