Judged the best in the world

Denbies Wine Estate scooped a Gold in the International Wine Challenge for its Denbies Chalk Ridge Rosé 2010.  England was one of 21 countries to submit a wine in the still rosé category for which there were 367 entries.  This was the only Gold award achieved in the still rosé category and an unprecedented achievement for an English wine. 

This represents another milestone for Denbies, England’s largest vineyard, which has made significant progress in developing its premium still range of wines.  This is mirrored by the achievements of all of Denbies wines submitted for the IWC, Ranmore Hill – Silver, Tesco Finest English White – Bronze, and the premium sparkling Cubitt Reserve - Silver.

The Chalk Ridge Rosé is 100% Rondo, a red skinned grape, early ripening with a depth of colour, suited to the English climate and grown on the estate since 2005. 

It is extremely rare for a still rosé to be awarded gold and even more significant that it is an English rosé.  "This is a huge success for Denbies," commented Christopher White, general manager, "we have noticed a growth in demand and interest for premium still wines and this award reinforces the fact that English wine producers can and will continue to produce Internationally recognised wine."

The International Wine Challenge is held annually, a large part of the IWC's reputation is down to the quality and experience of its judges. This year, more than 370 winemakers, merchants and writers from around the world took part.

Established in 1986, Denbies Wine Estate is family owned and run. It has 265 acres under vine and produces a range of internationally award-winning still white, red, rose and sparkling wines.  The Visitor Centre is open to the public daily with both indoor and outdoor wine tours.
 

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1 May 2011 - Felicity Murray