Sussex

Sussex: the home of Sparkling (Chardonnay and Pinot)

England has become a serious sparkling-wine producer, and Sussex is its heart. The chalk soils of the South Downs are the same seam that runs under Champagne, and a warming climate has finally made them viable. The best English fizz now beats plenty of Champagne in blind tastings, which is the climate-change story poured into a glass.

The wines

Traditional-method sparkling from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, made exactly as in Champagne: crisp, high-acid and increasingly refined. Still wines are improving too, but the bubbles are the reason to come.

Where to go

The vineyards spread across the South Downs near Lewes and Brighton, many with cellar-door tastings and tours. The setting of rolling chalk hills near the sea is a genuine draw in its own right.

Eat

Local seafood, Sussex cheeses and farm produce suit the bright sparkling wines. A coastal lunch at Brighton with a glass of English fizz is the easy pleasure.

Getting there

Train from London to Lewes or Brighton in about an hour, then taxis or tours to the vineyards. A car gives more freedom across the Downs.