Furleigh Estate Classic Cuvée 2014 75cl

England, perhaps more than any other vine-growing country, is at the mercy of the elements. The atrocious weather of 2013 meant that many vineyards made no wine at all, so the long hot summer of 2014 was a relief to everyone, not least the accountants.

This 2014 from Furleigh Estate is made in loveliest Dorset from the big three Champagne varieties, 40% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir, 30% Pinot Meunier, using the same techniques as its cousins across the English channel. Four years of ageing has softened the acidity and this is drinking perfectly now. And doesn't it look smart with all that gold?