English Wine Week

Given that London is such a cosmopolitan city with cuisines from all around the world, we are sometimes a bit lax about celebrating our own output. As a race, the English are not suited to eulogising much and especially our culinary produce. To an extent, that is because we have not a lot to shout about compared to our European neighbours. One example is the wine that is produced in this country. England does not seem like the country that would be able to produce wine given the difference in weather between places like California, Burgundy and Tuscany.

However, English wine-making has come on quite a way with a greater amount of expertise being applied. There is a more of a professional feel to the industry rather than one populated by hobbying amateurs. English Wine Week runs for a week until 5 June and there are a fair few events at which to siddle up and taste the finest that English vineyards have to offer.

With much in the way of sampling alcohol in London, the best place to start is Vinopolis near Borough Market. They will be showcasing wines from around the country, from places such as Oxfordshire, Sussex and Hampshire. For those who are keen to find out more about the different wines, their resident wine expert Tom Forrest will be conducting tours from Wednesday to Saturday. Tickets can be bought from Vinopolis or online.

The most interesting development in this area is that of English sparkling wine. Part of the progress is due to the fact that the soil in places like Kent is actually similar to that of the Champagne region in France. Whilst nowhere near the quality of champagne, Chapel Down winemakers have come up with some damn fine bubbly. To sample their produce along with some first-rate food, head along to Roast restaurant. They have put together a different food and wine pairing for each day of the festival.

If you’re looking for a broader range of wines, there is a chance to sample around thirty English wines at south London venue Artisan & Vine on 1 June. For twenty pounds, you can sample as much as you like starting from 7pm.

Whatever is that you do, try and find some way of finding out about English wine. If only to allow you to show off to other people at parties.

Vinopolis
1 Bank End
Borough
SE1 9BU

Tel: 020 7940 3000

Roast Restaurant
The Floral Hall
Borough Market
Borough
SE1 1TL

Tel: 0845 034 7300

Artisan & Vine
126 St John’s Hill
Clapham
SW11 1SL

Tel: 0207 228 4997

Image by nikoretro courtesy of Flickr