Is ESW produced in the same way as Champagne?

Who says you need to cross the English Channel to experience the epitome of sparkling wine? English Sparkling Wine (ESW) is proving to be a stellar rival to the renowned Champagnes of France, thanks to its meticulous production process that mirrors the celebrated traditions of Champagne-making. As we explore how ESW is crafted, it becomes clear that England's vintners aren't just following in the footsteps of their French counterparts—they're stepping up the game.

The Traditional Method: A Shared Technique

Both English Sparkling Wine and Champagne are produced using the "traditional method," known in France as "méthode champenoise." This meticulous process is the gold standard for high-quality sparkling wine and involves several key stages that are crucial for achieving the complex flavours and characteristic bubbles found in both beverages.

1. Primary Fermentation: The journey begins with the primary fermentation of the grapes, usually Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, which are also the mainstays in Champagne production. This first ferment turns the grape juice into wine, albeit a still version without any sparkle.
   

2. Blending: After the initial fermentation, winemakers blend wines from various vineyards, years, and grape types to create a 'cuvee', the base wine for the sparkling version. This step is critical as it sets the foundational flavour profile of the final product.
   

3. Secondary Fermentation: Next, the base wine is bottled with a mixture of sugar and yeast, known as 'liqueur de tirage', which triggers the second fermentation inside the bottle. This is where the magic happens, and the wine gradually develops its bubbles.
   

4. Aging on the Lees: The wine then ages in the bottle, on the yeast cells that conducted the second fermentation. This aging process is crucial for developing deeper flavours and textures in the wine. In Champagne, the minimum aging period is 15 months for non-vintage and 3 years for vintage, with many producers exceeding these requirements. English Sparkling Wine producers also follow similar aging processes to enhance the complexity of their wines.
   

5. Riddling and Disgorging: Once aging is complete, the bottles undergo 'riddling', where they are gradually tilted to encourage yeast sediment to settle near the bottle’s cap. They are then 'disgorged', a process that removes this sediment, ensuring the wine is clear.
   

6. Dosage and Corking: Finally, a 'dosage' of wine and sugar syrup is added to adjust the sweetness level before the bottle is sealed with a cork.
   

The English Edge

While the methods may be similar, the terroir - that mystical combination of soil, climate, and topography - plays a pivotal role in differentiating English Sparkling Wine from Champagne. England's cooler climate often results in grapes with higher acidity levels, which can give ESW a crispier and fresher taste compared to its French counterpart. Additionally, the burgeoning English wine scene is marked by a spirit of experimentation and precision, with many winemakers leveraging modern technology to refine their processes and enhance quality.

Conclusion

Is English Sparkling Wine produced in the same way as Champagne? Absolutely – yet it's the subtle nuances and the distinctive English character that make ESW not just a mimic but a standout in its own right. For anyone exploring the sparkling wines of the world, English Sparkling Wine offers a delightful and sophisticated experience, rooted in tradition yet vibrant with innovation. Whether enjoyed amidst the lush landscapes of England's wine regions or savoured during a special celebration, ESW is a testament to the heights that sparkling wine can reach outside the storied vineyards of Champagne.