11 years ago

Talking Wine – December 2013

For years rather obscure grape varieties planted in the UK were considered more suitable to the English growing conditions but with the massive growth in sparkling wine we have seen Chardonnay and Pinot Noir planted in mass on the chalk soils of the South Downs. Now I read that Denbies, based just outside Dorking and one of the older and better known producers, are harvesting some Sauvignon Blanc for the first time. The UK has always had a marginal climate for Sauvignon Blanc but, according to the vineyard’s winemaker, with improved clonal selection, soil analysis and a better understanding of wine making in cooler climates we may soon all be drinking our own ‘Sancerre’. Top marks to Denbies who have always tried to be at the forefront of what they do. However there is talk of them trying to oak the Sauvignon – not something that usually works in my opinion!!

Ted Sandbach

Ted studied History and Physical Education at Loughborough University before teaching at Magdalen College School in Oxford for 7 years. He gave up teaching to follow his passion for wine and cut his teeth at Stevens Garnier in Wine retail. During this time he travelled extensively and took his wine exams including the Diploma – which he will admit is much harder these days! Frustration and ambition prompted him to start The Oxford Hamper Company in 1985 which by 1992 had metamorphosed into The Oxford Wine Company.