ADVERTORIAL • May 2023

Champagne or English sparkling: which is the fizz for you?

The former is so ubiquitous that it hardly needs an introduction. After all, there’s nothing that says ‘celebration’ like the pop of Champagne. But, north of France, the chalky cliffs of southern England have begun capitalising on warmer climes, serving some of the highest quality bubbly ever sipped…

The real question is, which do you love best: French bubbles or English fizz? Since both can be found at The Wine Flyer – our very own Avios-first wine retailer – it’s time we put the tipples to the test.

England: an effervescent beauty

While there has been a renaissance in English viticulture over the last few decades, its history dates back to Roman times, with one of the first mentions of English sparkling wine in 1662. As English vines are relatively new, they tend to feel fresher on the palate with a more subtle, lighter lees character (that’s dead yeast cells, to you and me). That said, England’s traditional production methods mirror those of France and, though they cannot technically use the term Champagne, they can still brand their wine with French terminology. Today, our little isle produces outstanding Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs and Classic Cuvées.

Collect Avios on English Sparkling Wine

France: the finest fizz

Though Champagne shares similar tasting notes with her English neighbour, its production has been around much longer and the vines are a lot older in comparison. This means the vines have had more time to absorb deeper characteristics from the soil. The other hallmark of Champagne lies in the terminology. Champagne is named after the historical region of Champagne in the northeast of France. The only sparkling wines that are officially allowed to be called Champagne are the ones produced in this region.

Collect Avios on your next bottle of Champagne

Champagne: Moët & Chandon Imperial Brut NV

An iconic Champagne and a classic in its own right. It has regularly been rated highly due to its consistency. As far as tasting notes go, it has a winning combination of pear, zesty fruit and a hint of brioche.
How much? £43.99 (and you collect 220 Avios)
The verdict? A celebratory fizz for every occasion.

English Sparkling: Hattingley Valley Blanc de Blancs 2014

The bubbly that balances complex flavours with acidity and gets it absolutely right. Using 100 per cent Chardonnay grapes, this vintage boasts sweet notes of honey and apple pie with a delicate, long citrus finish.
How much? £42.49 (and you collect 215 Avios)
The verdict? A vibrant sparkling wine that can instantly put you in the holiday mood.

Champagne: Laurent Perrier Brut NV

Often heralded as the epitome of fine Champagne, this tipple gracefully oscillates between a bouquet of flowers and lemon meringue. It also has a long-lasting dry finish and is one that can win many hearts.
How much? £39.99 (and you collect 225 Avios)
The verdict? This Champagne has serious party potential.

English Sparkling: Camel Valley Brut 2013

The flagship cuvée that could well be the magnum opus of Camel Valley. What’s beautiful about this sparkling wine is that, unlike its cousins in England’s southeast, it hails from Cornwall. This moreish gem is bursting with zesty aromas along with elderflower and a touch of honey, leaving you wanting to refill that glass.
How much? £47.99 (and you collect 240 Avios)
The verdict? A versatile bubbly that’s a great one to show off.

Champagne: Castelnau Brut Rosé NV

A rich Champagne with great complexity and character. On the palate, there’s a blend of several red fruits ranging from berries to pomegranate with a hint of almond biscuits and a long finish.
How much? £37.99 (and you collect 190 Avios)
The verdict? An excellent, reasonably priced pink fizz for a barbecue, picnic or dinner party.

English Sparkling: Gusbourne Estate Rosé Brut 2018

This elegant fizzy rosé consistently wins accolades for a reason. It is floral on the nose, followed by a wave of fresh strawberries on the palate and a rounded, creamy finish. Take a sip of this and you’ll feel as if balmy days might last forever.
How much? £49.99 (and you collect 250 Avios)
The verdict? A special and summery sparkling worth splashing the cash on.

The Wine Flyer provides access to some of the most delicious bottles in the world, from classic favourites to modern trailblazers. You can collect at least five Avios for every £1 spent at The Wine Flyer. And you can spend Avios on award-winning Champagne and sparkling wines to reduce the cost of your order. To stock up today, click here

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