The Southern Quarter’s pick of wine-related things to see and do during the month of May
Try this: Biddenden Ice Cider
Biddenden Vineyards have been making English wine for over half a century and last year released a sweet wine made from the sweetest grape must recorded in the UK.
But for those looking for an alternative aperitif this summer, they’ve now launched a sweet ice cider (pictured), which is bursting with aromas and characteristics of the Kentish grown Egremont Russet and Bramley apples.
The 9% ABV cider is made using a process known as cryoconcentration. This involves the apples being pressed within 12 hours and then the juice frozen, before being fermented like a sweet wine, for four months.
The cider, priced at £12.90 for a 50cl bottle, pairs brilliantly with a cheese or charcuterie platter (a great accompaniment for a posh picnic) but we love it served over ice with tonic and a slice of apple – the perfect cocktail for summer socialising.
Celebrate this: Great British Rosé Week
As the weather brightens, rosé season is getting into a full swing and with such beautiful examples of this exciting wine made right here on British soil, there’s no excuse not to drink English rosé.
From May 2nd to 8th, join @englishvineyards and @wineawaytheday as they spearhead #GreatBritishRoséweek with plenty of English & Welsh Rosé-related content and special offers on their Instagram accounts and don’t forget to check out our pick of the latest English rosé wine releases.
Visit here: The Hut at Rathfinny
In an exciting new addition to the hospitality offering at Rathfinny Wine Estate, new walk-in and takeaway venue, The Hut, will open this summer.
Situated in the heart of the vineyard with incredible panoramic views, The Hut provides the perfect spot for an impromptu glass of Sussex Sparkling accompanied by a light snack of local charcuterie, cheese or freshly baked cakes.
The Hut is open every day from 10am-5pm.
Attend this: London Rosé Festival
Another reason to sit back in the sunshine and drink pink this month is the inaugural London Rosé Festival at the Gardens of Fulham Palace from Friday May 27th to Sunday May 29th.
Throughout the long weekend, enjoy samplings from up to 40 rosé producers from around the world including Maison Mirabeau, Léoube, Minuty, Ultimate Provence and Château de Berne on board as you meander through the 13 acres of beautiful lawns and walled gardens.
Many of the rosé producers will also be joining forces with notable restaurants and chefs will to create a unique gastronomic experience as part of the ‘Feasting Series’ which will be held in the magnificent Central Tudor courtyard. Standard tickets are £25 per person.
Book this: Nyetimber open day
Not generally open to the public day-to-day, Nyetimber will once again open its doors for a series of open days this summer. Guests can enjoy a one-of-a-kind tasting and tour that will enable them to experience the rich history of Nyetimber and the chance to walk among some of the oldest vines in England.
Following a tour of the vineyard tour with Nyetimber’s brand ambassadors, the 15th Century Medieval Barn provides the perfect setting for a tasting of the gold-medal winning Classic Cuvee Multi-Vintage, Blanc de Blanc 2014 and Cuvee Chérie Multi-Vintage.
Tickets cost £35 per person which is redeemable against a case (of 6) purchased on the day. The first open days take place on May 14th and 15th and will be held on various weekends until September.
