20th – 28th June is English Wine Week and we couldn't be more excited to showcase the best that England has to offer when it comes to viticulture!

There’s never been a better time to drink English wine, from the chalky soils of Sussex to the rolling countryside of Surrey, English producers are crafting wines that are not only world-class but full of personality, precision and a real sense of place. Once seen as a curiosity, English wine has firmly established itself on the global stage particularly with sparkling wines that rival some of the very best.

At Butlers, we’ve been proud supporters of English wine for years, championing the growers and winemakers who continue to push boundaries and redefine what’s possible on our shores. ForEnglish Wine Week, we’ve picked out a handful of bottles we love, a mix of still and sparkling wines that showcase just how exciting things are right now.

 

 

Albourne Estate – White Pinot

Albourne Estate is a family-owned vineyard and winery overlooking the beautiful South Downs, just 8 miles from Brighton in the heart of the Sussex countryside. They craft small quantities of award-winning still and sparkling English wine using their own sustainably grown grapes.

The Wine:
White Pinot is a clever and delicious blend of Pinot varieties made in a crisp, refreshing style. Expect delicate orchard fruit like apple and pear, alongside subtle citrus and a gentle floral lift. There’s a lovely purity here, with a clean, dry finish that makes it incredibly versatile.

Perfect Pairing:
Ideal with light summer dishes, fresh salads, grilled fish or a classic Sussex charcuterie board.

 

Sugrue South Downs – Bonkers Chardonnay

If you ask us, English sparkling wine doesn't come better than that of Sugrue South Downs. Founded by Dermot Sugrue, then head winemaker of Wiston Estate, in 2009, and originally producing just one cuvee 'The Trouble with Dreams'. Over the last few years he has been joined by his wife Ana, a winemaker with experience around the world and a former lecturer at Plumpton College, and they have found a number of wonderful vineyards across Sussex to work with. They have built a cult following for wines that combine precision with a touch of personality, and Bonkers is exactly that.

The Wine:
A brilliantly expressive English Chardonnay that balances ripe stone fruit with bright acidity and a subtle creamy texture. There’s a hint of oak adding complexity, alongside citrus zest and a mineral backbone that keeps everything taut and focused.

Perfect Pairing:
Roast chicken, buttery seafood dishes or even a creamy mushroom risotto.

 

 

Hattingley Valley – The English Gent

Hattingley Valley are one of England’s leading sparkling producers, known for consistency and polish across their range. Based in Hampshire, their cool-climate vineyards and careful cellar work, particularly their expertise with lees ageing, have earned them a reputation for crafting some of the country’s most refined and expressive sparkling wines.

The Wine:
The English Gent is a beautifully made traditional method sparkling wine, showing notes of baked apple, brioche and a touch of citrus. Fine bubbles and a rounded, elegant palate make this a real crowd-pleaser, with just enough richness balanced by fresh acidity.

Perfect Pairing:
Fish and chips (trust us), smoked salmon, or simply as an aperitif in the sunshine.

 

 

Breaky Bottom Vineyard – Manja Scott 2019

A true cult estate and one of our firm favourites, Breaky Bottom produces some of the most characterful and age-worthy English wines, with a strong focus on tradition and individuality. They look after 6 hectares in the South Downs national park, and also tend to lambs that graze the hills and vineyards. The wines are named after friends and family of the late Peter Hall, an icon of English winemaking. 

The Wine:
Manja Scott 2019 is a beautifully mature sparkling wine, showing layers of complexity, dried apple, toasted nuts, honey and a subtle oxidative note that adds intrigue. The texture is rich yet balanced, with a long, savoury finish.

Perfect Pairing:
Perfect with richer dishes, think roast chicken, pork, or even a hard, aged cheese.

 

Ridgeview Wine Estate – Fitzrovia Rosé NV

One of the pioneers of English sparkling wine, Since 1995, their family has been producing world-class, award-winning English sparkling wine in Sussex, focusing on quality and sustainability from grape to glass. Ridgeview continues to set the benchmark for quality in English winemaking.

The Wine:
Fitzrovia Rosé is vibrant and elegant, bursting with red berry fruit — strawberry, raspberry and a hint of cranberry — alongside a crisp, refreshing acidity. There’s a delicate floral note and a beautifully fine mousse.

Perfect Pairing:
Summer in a glass — perfect with picnic fare, light canapés or simply enjoyed on its own.

 

 

Beare Green Winery – Tickety Boosh NV (Special Offer – £15)

A small, exciting Surrey producer making approachable, fun sparkling wines that don’t take themselves too seriously, but still seriously deliver. A fairly new project (2022 was the first vintage) of wine educators and owners of Streatham Wine House bar Jimmy Smith and Bethany Paterson and winemaker Sam Hill. Based in Beare Green, Surrey they source grapes from a number of trusted growers in the south of England for their range of wines. In the cellar they are strictly minimal intervention, fermenting without adding yeast, sugar, enzymes or other adjuncts. Their wines are very low in sulphites as well.

The Wine:
Tickety Boosh NV is bright, fresh and fruit-forward, with notes of green apple, citrus and a gentle fizz that makes it incredibly easy-drinking. Lively, zippy and full of charm.

Perfect Pairing:
A brilliant aperitif, or pair with light nibbles, seafood or even a sunny afternoon in the garden.

Celebrate Local This English Wine Week

English wine continues to go from strength to strength, and there’s a real sense of momentum behind the industry right now. These wines aren’t just “good for England” they’re genuinely exciting, high-quality bottles that stand confidently on the world stage.

Join us to explore, English Wine Week, dive in and discover what’s happening right on our doorstep. WineGBwill be coordinating the campaign, so head over to their site for the latest events, competitions and news that makes this week so special.

Pop into the shop, have a chat with the team, and let us help you find your new favourite.

Cheers to English wine!