Charles Palmer Pinot Noir 2019

A light-bodied but deeply flavoured Pinot Noir, the aromas of ripe red fruits are striking and uplifting, but there are also darker brambly notes in the mix, together with intriguing hints of nutmeg. As with the 2018 equivalent, the texture is notably silky and smooth, with a persistent finish that caresses the tongue. There is no oak used in this wine’s production – the family were keen for the fruit to be the unquestioned star of the show. Charles Palmer Vineyards is a family run wine estate at Winchelsea in Sussex. The estate’s vineyards benefit from an ideal climate for vines, with its close proximity to the sea, south facing slope, and its terroir in particular. The lowest part of the vineyard is a mere 5 metres from sea level and sits above a bed of Kimmeridgian clay similar to the Grand Crus of Burgundy. Their vines were first planted in 2006 specifically with the aim of producing a sparkling wine of the highest standard. Production is small and meticulous. Every effort is made to ensure only the best grapes are produced and selected according to the family’s exacting standards. The result is a small and exciting collection of vintage sparkling wines, each vintage unique and characterful in its own way.