This month, I had the privilege of attending an exclusive evening hosted by Hattingley Valley, one of the UK’s celebrated sparkling wine producers. Situated in the rolling chalky soils of rural Hampshire, this pioneering winery has cemented its place as a cornerstone of English winemaking.
The event, the unveiling of the new 2017 Vintage, was led by Head Winemaker and Master of Wine, Rob MacCulloch, alongside the ever-engaging Tour Manager, David Rogers. Rob, who joined Hattingley in 2022, shared his extensive expertise while guiding us through the remarkable story of the 2017 vintage. Guests were treated to a side-by-side vertical tasting of the 2017 and 2015 vintages, offering a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of Hattingley’s wines.
The evening was an intimate affair, exclusively attended by members of the Kings Club, Hattingley’s loyalty programme for their most dedicated customers. Surrounded by fellow wine enthusiasts, we explored how the challenges of 2017 shaped two exceptional new vintages.
The 2017 vintage was one of adversity for English winemakers, with severe spring frosts significantly reducing yields across the country.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of Hattingley Valley’s 2017 Blanc de Blancs and Kings Cuvée, paired expertly with a selection of artisan cheeses. The Blanc de Blancs captivated with its elegance and complexity, quickly becoming a favourite in the room. The Kings Cuvée, made only in exceptional vintages, epitomizes Hattingley’s craftsmanship. Predominantly composed of Chardonnay, this barrel-fermented cuvée undergoes extended lees aging to achieve its luxurious depth. With just 1,032 bottles produced, it is a truly special release.
Rob explained that the Kings Cuvée originated from a serendipitous discovery during Hattingley’s inaugural vintage, when a barrel aged longer than planned revealed extraordinary potential. Today, it is intentionally crafted as the pinnacle of their portfolio, embodying their dedication to excellence.
The 2017 vintage may have been born out of hardship, but Hattingley Valley has transformed it into a triumph. Rob’s masterclass wasn’t just a tasting—it was a celebration of the resilience, creativity, and passion that defines English winemaking.
Both 2017 Hattingley Valley’s Blanc de Blancs and Kings Cuvée are available for purchase now.
