The English Wine Producers (EWP) trade and press tasting this year will take place on Thursday, May 5 at One Great George Street, London SW1 from 10.30am-4.30pm. The invitation-only tasting represents the largest line up of English wines from around the country. English Wine Producers members, whose combined ranges accounts for over 80% of total production, will have their wines displayed on a central table in style order, presenting an overview of the industry and the styles that are developing. Representatives from the exhibiting producers will also be on hand to take visitors through their own ranges of wines.
Two new EWP members will be attending the tasting: Jenkyn Place, based in Hampshire, a 15 acre estate dedicated to production of sparkling wine from the traditional varieties. Owned by Simon Bladon, the first vintage, 2006, was released last year; and Stopham Vineyard, based near Pulborough in West Sussex, owned and run by Simon Woodhead. Inspired by wines from Alsace, the still white wine varieties of Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc dominate. Bacchus, Auxerrois, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Dornfelder are also planted.
The 2010 production figures will be released just prior to the trade tasting and are expected to reveal that for the first time, sparkling wines will be the predominant style produced. With more of the recently-planted hectarage starting to come in to production, volumes produced will continue to show an increase, says the EWP.
The trade and press tasting is by invitation only. Anyone interested to receive an invitation, please contact English Wine Producers on 01536 772264 or email info@englishwineproducers.com
