Canterbury Rosé Brut 2020 – Simpsons

The Canterbury Rosé Brut 2020, by Simpsons Wine Estate, is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, a sparkling wine that beautifully encapsulates the essence of the Kentish terroir. This exquisite rosé, originating from the verdant landscapes of Kent—often celebrated as the “Garden of England”—embodies the pioneering spirit of Simpsons Wine Estate. Named after the historic city of Canterbury, a stone’s throw from the estate, this wine is a testament to the region’s rich heritage and the estate’s commitment to producing sparkling wines of exceptional quality and character.

The 2020 vintage was one of promise and potential, marked by an optimal balance of sunny days and cool, breezy nights. This climate, characteristic of Kent, provided the ideal conditions for the cultivation of the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes that comprise the Canterbury Rosé. The soils of the estate, rich in chalk and limestone, akin to those of the renowned Champagne region, contribute significantly to the wine’s distinct minerality and finesse. This terroir, coupled with the estate’s sustainable viticulture practices, ensures that each grape reflects the purity and vibrancy of its environment.

The winemaking process behind the Canterbury Rosé Brut 2020 is a testament to Simpsons Wine Estate’s dedication to quality and precision. Following careful hand-selection at harvest, the grapes undergo a gentle pressing to extract their juice, preserving the delicate nuances of the fruit. The use of traditional methods, including secondary fermentation in the bottle, allows the wine to develop its fine mousse and complex flavor profile. Extended lees aging adds depth and richness, enhancing the rosé’s texture and imbuing it with subtle bready undertones.

Upon tasting, the Canterbury Rosé unfolds with a symphony of sensory delights. It greets the palate with a delicate hue reminiscent of the softest pink blossoms, leading to an aromatic bouquet brimming with notes of red berries, citrus, and a hint of floral elegance. The palate experiences a perfect harmony between the wine’s crisp acidity and its creamy effervescence, carrying the bright fruit flavors to a lingering, sophisticated finish. The wine’s minerality, a signature of the chalky soils of Kent, shines through, adding a layer of complexity that invites contemplation with each sip.

This Brut rosé is more than a sparkling wine; it is an invitation to explore the depth and diversity of English sparkling wine, offering a taste experience that transcends the ordinary. It pairs beautifully with a wide array of dishes, from fresh seafood to light summer salads, showcasing its versatility and broad appeal. The Canterbury Rosé Brut 2020 stands as a testament to the innovation and craftsmanship of Simpsons Wine Estate, inviting connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike to discover the elegance and sophistication of English rosé.

In essence, the Canterbury Rosé Brut 2020 from Simpsons Wine Estate captures the spirit of English winemaking at its most refined. It embodies the estate’s commitment to producing wines of distinction and character, offering a taste experience that is both uniquely English and universally appealing. This wine is a celebration of the land, the grape, and the winemaker’s art, standing as a testament to the potential and beauty of English sparkling wine. It is a vibrant homage to the iconic landscapes of Kent and the historic city of Canterbury, a sparkling tribute to the rich tapestry of the region’s viticultural heritage.