Strawberries, sunshine, and Centre Court – there’s nothing quite like Wimbledon to usher in a classic British summer. While Pimm’s may be the usual courtside companion, English wine is deserves the spotlight too – no longer a wildcard, it is playing like a pro. Whether you’re watching from Henman Hill, your sofa, or a garden picnic, these homegrown bottles bring just the right fizz and flair.
And with English Wine Week (21st–28th June) in full swing, there’s no better time to raise a glass to local brilliance. Wimbledon and English wine? Talk about a dream doubles pairing. 🎾🥂
🎾 Why English Wine Belongs at Wimbledon
- Terroir match
- English wine used to be the underdog — too cold, too damp, too unpredictable. But thanks to rising temperatures (hello, heatwave), regions like Kent and Sussex are now producing grapes with ripeness and finesse. That cool-climate acidity still holds its ground, but there’s more fruit, balance, and consistency than ever. The climate match is swinging in England’s favour.
- Rising quality
- Once seen as the wildcard of the wine world, English wine is now winning international awards, beating out Champagne in blind tastings, and earning spots on serious wine lists. Sparkling leads the charge — crafted with the same traditional method as Champagne but delivering a distinctly English twist. Winemakers are refining their skills year after year, turning raw potential into polished performance. It’s no longer just a lucky break — it’s a well-earned place in the big leagues.
- Celebrate local
- Wimbledon is more than just tennis — it’s a celebration of British summer at its best. From strawberries and cream to golden evenings on the lawn, it’s all about tradition with a modern twist. English wine fits right in: local, sustainable, and full of character. Why pop a cork from Champagne when you can raise a glass from Kent or Sussex? Home advantage has never tasted so good.
🍇 Did You Know? A (Very) Brief History of English Wine
English wine might feel like a newcomer, but vines have been rooted here since Roman times. The Normans kept things bubbling along with monastic vineyards, and Henry VIII reportedly had over a dozen vineyards in his reign.
Modern English winemaking really took off in the late 20th century — but it’s the last two decades that have seen it rise from curious outsider to serious contender. With global awards and world-class fizz, England’s wine scene is now firmly in the spotlight — and it’s holding serve.
🥂 Sparkling Stars
Supermarket Picks:
- Nyetimber Classic Cuvée (West Sussex)
Grown on chalk soils and made using the Traditional Method (think Champagne), this English icon delivers top-seed quality. Expect toasted brioche, golden apple, honey, and sweet spice.
Pair with: smoked salmon blinis, asparagus, or just the finals weekend.
✅ Available at Waitrose, M&S, Ocado
🎾 Fun fact: Nyetimber is the official sparkling wine partner of British Tennis — so it’s already got serious court credentials.
- Ridgeview Cavendish Brut (Sussex)
Rich and biscuity with orchard fruit, red berries, citrus and almond. This Blanc de Noirs brings Sussex sunshine in a bottle.
Pair with: sausage rolls or a cheesy picnic quiche.
✅ Available at Waitrose, Ocado
Treat Yourself:
- Gusbourne Rosé Brut (Kent)
Delicate and floral, with wild strawberry, spice and a mineral edge — Wimbledon in a glass.
Pair with: strawberries and cream, of course.
💸 Available at Majestic, Berry Bros. & Rudd, or direct from Gusbourne
🌿 Serve Something Still and Sophisticated
Supermarket Picks:
- Chapel Down Bacchus (Kent)
England’s answer to Sauvignon Blanc. Expect elderflower, citrus and green apple zip. Dry, crisp, and a modern classic.
Pair with: goat’s cheese salad, garden peas, or cucumber sandwiches.
✅ Available at Waitrose, M&S, Sainsbury’s
- Aldwick Estate ‘Mary’s Rosé’ (Somerset)
A light, dry English rosé with redcurrant and cranberry flavours, and a refreshing finish.
Pair with: alfresco lunches, charcuterie, or grilled veggies.
✅ Available at Waitrose Cellar
Treat Yourself:
- Simpsons Gravel Castle Chardonnay (Kent)
Unoaked and mineral-driven, with white blossom, orchard fruit, lime zest and a flinty edge. Polished and refreshing.
Pair with: cold roast chicken, salted crisps, or grilled courgette.
💸 Available at The Wine Society, Berry Bros. & Rudd
🍓 Sparkling Rosé for Strawberries & Cream
Wimbledon’s most iconic flavour calls for a pink pairing.
Supermarket Picks:
- Chapel Down Rosé Brut
Delicate bubbles and wild strawberry fruit – light, dry, and crowd-pleasing.
✅ Available at M&S, Ocado
- Denbies Sparkling Rosé
Bright red fruits and floral lift – joyful and summery.
✅ Available at Tesco, Sainsbury’s
Treat Yourself:
- Nyetimber Rosé NV
Structured and complex with beautifully dry finesse. Fine dining fizz for a centre court moment.
💸 Available at Waitrose Cellar, Nyetimber.com
💷 English Wines Under £15
For when you want something delicious without breaking the bank:
- M&S English White (by Chapel Down) – fresh, floral and versatile
- Tesco Finest English White – dry, aromatic and affordable
- Denbies Whitedowns Sparkling Brut – light fizz, easy drinking
- Three Choirs Rosé (Waitrose) – soft, strawberry-led, and picnic-friendly
🧺 Picnic Pairing Tips
- Chill whites and fizz well (7–10°C), but avoid over-icing.
- Use reusable flutes or wine tumblers to keep things stylish outdoors.
- Strawberries pair best with sparkling rosé or off-dry whites — skip the tannic reds.
🏆 Final Sip: Game, Set & Match
Whether you’re backing Centre Court legends, following an underdog through a five-set thriller, or just here for the strawberries and sunshine, English wine is ready to play. These bottles bring finesse, freshness, and just enough flair to rival anything from across the Channel.
From pop-up picnics to living room watch parties, there’s an English wine to match every mood — crisp whites, elegant rosés, and sparkling stars that truly shine. They’re local, lively, and more exciting with every vintage.
So chill your bottles, pour generously, and raise a toast to homegrown greatness. With English wine this good, your glass is guaranteed to stay in play!
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The Curious Cork 
I have to admit that my knowledge of British native wines is suspect (is it just me?) but it’s never too late to learn! Thanks for your suggestions: I’m taking Bacchus shopping with me so that he can carry the bags!
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Sounds like there’ll be a party at your house!
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So interesting! I would be interested to know the cépages of the wines if you know them?
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Which wines would you like to know the cépages for?
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