Stonyfield, White 2017

In 1793, engineers started work on what was to be the longest tunnel in England, on the Grand Union Canal. They spread the ironstone rock from the tunnel on a south-facing field (hence the 'stony field'), which incidentally created the perfect site for growing grapevines. Stonyfield have been producing traditional method sparkling wine since 2010, and are a small, family-run winery who follow sustainable farming practices. White 2017 is made from a blend of 80% Seyval Blanc and 20% Pinot Noir. A real hidden gem; it won Gold at the GB Wine Awards 2021, beating some of the UK's most prestigious and well-known wineries to the title. The crispness of the Seyval is softened by the more complex Pinot to produce a sophisticated, dry taste with notes of ripe lemon, toasted brioche and pear. A great wine to enjoy as an aperitif or paired with chicken.