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Vineyards get ready for English Wine Week starting May 28

Published:  27 May, 2011


Vineyards across the country and making their final plans for this year's English Wine Week which runs from May 28 to June 5.

Vineyards across the country and making their final plans for this year's English Wine Week which runs from May 28 to June 5.

A host of activity is all ready to roll out as wineries look to build on another record year for awards and competition medals.

In London a number of restaurants are looking to push English wines including Bumpkin restaurants, based in Notting Hill and South Kensington, which is extending its English wine focus to an English Wine Month, up until June 30. It will promote 10 English wines by the glass or bottle, all of which have been specially selected to accompany their menu of seasonal British ingredients.

The Penny Black on Chelsea's Fulham Road is devising a seasonal two or three-course luncheon and four-course dinner, each course matched with an English wine.

Hotels in The Mercure Hotel group are offering diners a complimentary glass of locally produced English wine with their evening meals alongside running wine tasting master classes on June 2 with local English wine producers.

The Wine Pantry, the UK's first tasting room showcasing uniquely English wines, cheese and cured meats is opening in London's Borough Market during English Wine Week. It will feature a rotation of 16 English still and eight sparkling wines available to buy as a taster, by the glass or as a bottle to takeaway.

Vineyards are offering a range of attractions, from special offers and tastings, such as the launch of new 2010 vintage wines, to special events. Sharpham Vineyard in Devon (www.sharpham.com) is converting the winery in to a temporary art gallery displaying works of art from local artists. Sharpham will also be marking the Week with the launch of their new sparkling rosé 2009, a blend of Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir grapes.

Camel Valley in Cornwall will be hosting a 'Fizz and The Outlaw's Fish' evening, featuring guest Chef Double Michelin starred Nathan Outlaw.

IWC award-winners Denbies Wine Estate is holding a cheese and winemaking day on June 2 whilst in Yorkshire, Ryedale Vineyards is hosting a tutored tasting of eight Yorkshire wines on June 4. In Wales, Wern-ddu Farm Vineyard will be launching its new 2010 organic vintage white wine at their vineyard open days taking place over several days during the week.

"There is a real buzz around English wines at the moment," said Julia Trustram Eve of English Wine Producers. "English Wine Week will help continue that focus and actively encourage the customer to try an English wine. As we are heading for the summer season, now is the perfect time."

A full listing of what's on, vineyard and other retailer and on trade activities can be found on www.englishweek.co.uk

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