Wiston Estate Blanc de Blancs 2018

The Findon Park Vineyard of 6 ha was Wiston Estate's first planting - it was planted in 2006 with various Champagne and Burgundy clones. The vineyard is in a secluded spot in the South Downs - the valley benefits from excellent airflow, which helps stave off disease. It is also only 4km north of the South Coast of England, meaning spring frosts rarely endanger it. There is 30cm or so of toil soil before the solid chalk of the South Downs. This is particularly ideal for Pinot Noir - keeping it well-drained in wet weather but hydrated in dry spells. Vines are trained in Pendleton and single guyot methods with cover crops between alternate rows (also alternated yearly) to help with soil health, reduce compaction, and promote biodiversity. Sheep are allowed to graze between the vines in the winter months, allowing their manure to degrade them. A Lipco tunnel sprayer is used, which recycles spray during the year, thereby reducing chemical use by 40% and also creating less spray drift. Biodegradable tie-downs, home-produced compost, recycled pressed skins and pruned vine wood help to reduce carbon emissions and promote biodiversity. Grapes are all harvested by hand.