Hambledon Vineyard, Premiere Cuvee

About Hambledon Vineyard

Hambledon Vineyard, situated in the heart of Hampshire, England, holds the distinction of being the country’s oldest commercial vineyard. Established in 1952 by Major General Sir Guy Salisbury-Jones, Hambledon was inspired by the classic winemaking traditions of France. Salisbury-Jones, a passionate Francophile, recognized the similarities between the chalky soils of Hampshire and those of Champagne, France, laying the groundwork for Hambledon’s future as a producer of high-quality English sparkling wines.

Today, Hambledon Vineyard spans over 200 acres, with its vineyards planted predominantly to the classic Champagne grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. The vineyard’s unique terroir, characterized by pure chalk soils and a cool climate, provides ideal conditions for growing grapes that yield elegant, crisp, and complex sparkling wines. Hambledon places a strong emphasis on sustainable viticulture, employing environmentally friendly practices to maintain the health of its vines and the surrounding ecosystem.

The modern era of Hambledon began in 1999, when Ian Kellett acquired the estate and initiated a new chapter of innovation and investment. Under Kellett’s leadership, the vineyard underwent significant expansion, and a state-of-the-art, gravity-fed winery was constructed. This facility, the first of its kind in the UK dedicated exclusively to sparkling wine, allows for gentle handling of the grapes and precision in the winemaking process. Renowned French oenologist Hervé Jestin joined the team, bringing expertise from Champagne and further elevating the quality of Hambledon’s wines.

Hambledon’s winemaking philosophy centers on the traditional method, or méthode traditionnelle, used in Champagne. Grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted before undergoing gentle pressing. The base wines are fermented in stainless steel tanks and, in some cases, oak barrels to add complexity. Secondary fermentation takes place in the bottle, followed by extended lees aging, which imparts depth and finesse to the finished wines. Hambledon’s sparkling wines are known for their purity, precision, and expressive character, reflecting both the unique Hampshire terroir and meticulous craftsmanship.

The Hambledon range includes a variety of sparkling wines, such as Classic Cuvée, Classic Cuvée Rosé, and Première Cuvée, each showcasing a distinctive blend of the three principal grape varieties. These wines have garnered numerous awards and accolades, earning recognition for their quality both in the UK and internationally. Hambledon’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the vineyard and winery; the estate offers immersive visitor experiences, including guided tours, tastings, and events that highlight the artistry and heritage of English sparkling wine.

With a rich history, pioneering spirit, and unwavering dedication to quality, Hambledon Vineyard stands as a leader in the English sparkling wine movement. Through a blend of tradition, innovation, and respect for the land, Hambledon continues to shape the future of English wine, producing elegant and expressive sparkling wines that capture the essence of their Hampshire origins.