1992 Nyetimber Blanc de Blancs

1992 Nyetimber Blanc de Blancs English sparkling wine, one bottle.

This is a celebrated English vintage from the prestigious Nyetimber estate in West Sussex. Their wines have received international acclaim, with their premium sparkling whites likened to those of Champagne. The 2001 Blanc de Blancs benefits from the fruit's growth in soil with a chalky, sandstone layer normally conducive of Champagne, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier varieties.

The Blanc de Blancs Chardonnay grapes are processed using traditional methods, pressed in the most delicate way possible and can be individualised by creative, expert wine-makers. The product remains intimate with the yeast lees for a sustained length of time after the second round of fermentation. This occurs in the bottle and produces the sparkle to the wine; the remaining lees create the unique flavours of biscuit, honey and brioche associated with champagne.

Nyetimber wines undergo a minimum three years of aging, after which the 1992 Blanc de Blancs was presented in its handsome green and gold bottle, its gently bubbling liquid a medium blonde with hints of malachite green. The nose is decidedly sweet but tart with scents of honey yoghurt, lemon and a wonderfully developed baked crème brulée character. Yet there is a refreshing tone of green apple and delicate florals.

It initiates on the palate smoothly, developing toasted and pastry-like flavours, before mediating rich flavours. For the finale, the wine is enveloped by components of a mature Chardonnay including a luscious hazelnut and natural vanilla. Despite its age, the 1992 Nyetimber Blanc de Blancs has maintained its body, its bubble and its brisk acidity.