Why the 2017 Vintage Sparkles with Hidden Depths

You won't believe how the 2017 vintage turned challenges into exquisite wines. Let's dive into Hattingley Valley's incredible story!

A Night to Remember: Unveiling the 2017 Vintage

This month, I had the pleasure of attending an exclusive evening at Hattingley Valley, one of the UK’s premier sparkling wine producers. Nestled in Hampshire’s rolling chalky soils, this winery has truly set itself apart in English winemaking. As I walked into the venue, there was an air of anticipation among fellow wine enthusiasts eager to discover what lay ahead. The focus was on the 2017 vintage, a year that many believed would be marked by challenges but instead emerged as a testament to resilience.

Rob MacCulloch, Head Winemaker and Master of Wine, led us through this journey with his extensive expertise. He painted a vivid picture of how 2017 presented its fair share of adversity—most notably, severe spring frosts that drastically reduced yields across England. Yet, through these trials, Hattingley produced exceptional wines that tell a compelling story.

Tasting Through Time: A Vertical Experience

One highlight of the evening was a side-by-side tasting of 2017 and 2015 vintages. The juxtaposition offered profound insights into how time and technique refine character in wines. As I sipped on each glass, I felt transported through time—each vintage revealing nuances shaped by their respective growing seasons.

• The 2015 vintage brought forth richness and maturity with balanced acidity.
• In contrast, the 2017 vintage showcased elegance with a lively freshness that spoke volumes about its challenging beginnings.

This experience was not just about tasting; it was about appreciating evolution and craft in every drop.

The Stars of the Evening: Blanc de Blancs and Kings Cuvée

The real stars were unveiled next—the Hattingley Valley 2017 Blanc de Blancs and the coveted Kings Cuvée. Pairing these exquisite wines with artisan cheeses elevated the evening further. The Blanc de Blancs captivated our palates with its complexity; it danced gracefully on my tongue, making it easy to see why it quickly became everyone’s favorite.

Then came the Kings Cuvée—a wine crafted only during exceptional years. Made predominantly from Chardonnay and undergoing barrel fermentation followed by extended lees aging, this cuvée embodies everything Hattingley stands for: craftsmanship and dedication to excellence. With only 1,032 bottles produced, its rarity adds to its allure.

Rob shared an intriguing backstory about this cuvée—it originated from a happy accident during their inaugural vintage when a barrel aged longer than planned revealed extraordinary potential. Now intentionally crafted as their portfolio’s pinnacle, it shines brilliantly as a symbol of innovation born from unforeseen circumstances.

Triumph from Adversity: A Celebration of Winemaking

As we raised our glasses to toast this remarkable evening, I reflected on how adversity can lead to triumph—just like in life! The 2017 vintage is not merely defined by its challenges but celebrated for how those very challenges shaped two phenomenal new releases.

Rob’s masterclass encapsulated more than just wine tasting; it was a celebration of creativity and passion inherent in English winemaking culture—a narrative woven through every bottle produced at Hattingley Valley.

Both Hattingley Valley’s 2017 Blanc de Blancs and Kings Cuvée are available for purchase now. If you have yet to explore these gems, trust me—you won’t want to miss out!

FAQ: All About Hattingley Valley’s 2017 Vintage

What makes the 2017 vintage special?

The year faced significant spring frosts that reduced yields but resulted in wines showcasing resilience and complexity.

How do I pair these wines?

Both pairs excellently with artisan cheeses; try pairing with creamy brie or aged cheddar for enhanced flavors!

Where can I buy them?

These exquisite wines are available directly from Hattingley Valley’s website or select fine wine retailers.

Photo by Nacho Domínguez Argenta on Unsplash