Henners Vintage 2016

Deliciously biscuity, creamy, honey aromas with beautifully poised acidity and a hint of salinity. A Cellar Door Wines team favourite.

Country: England

Region: East Sussex

ABV: 12%

Grapes: 70% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir

Owned and run by Lawrence Warr, Henners is the result of a long term dream to produce the finest English Sparkling Wine. Lawrence started his career as an automotive engineer in the exciting world of Formula One. Having left Formula One, to set up an engineering consultancy, the search for the perfect vineyard site began. The search  was a lengthy and dedicated one - as the ideal combination of soils, aspect, slope, altitude and microclimate was difficult to find. After two years he found the site at Herstmonceux, East Sussex. The vineyard was planted in May 2007, with the winery following in 2009.

2016 started off with fairly good weather and a mild spring which led to budburst around the normal time in mid-April. However wet and cool weather in May and June disrupted flowering somewhat, which impacted fruit set and reduced overall yields. The unpredictable weather continued through July and into early August, but was followed by warm, sunny weather that continued through September and October enabling the grapes to develop intense flavour and concentration. Sugars and acids were perfect for making quality English sparkling wine and the fruit was of exceptional quality so we decided it was a Vintage year. Blended from 70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir, the Chardonnay delivers excellent structure and vibrancy, while the Pinot Noir brings body and depth to deliver great roundness on the palate. Our Vintage spends 4 years on lees before release.