Nutbourne Bacchus 2023

A wonderfully expressive take on one of England’s signature grapes, this Bacchus combines aromatic intensity with a distinctly cool-climate sense of freshness. The nose moves beyond simple elderflower and citrus, revealing gooseberry, lime leaf and crisp green apple alongside nettle, hedgerow herbs and a subtle floral character. The palate is energetic and finely drawn, with grapefruit and orchard fruit giving way to more savoury, herbaceous flavours. Brisk acidity provides plenty of drive, while a gentle mineral quality adds definition to the dry, persistent finish.

Nutbourne Vineyards is based near Pulborough in West Sussex, where the relatively sheltered site and long growing season are particularly well suited to aromatic varieties. Bacchus has become something of an English speciality, often compared with Sauvignon Blanc but possessing a distinctive personality of its own. Here, the combination of citrus, hedgerow aromatics and herbal freshness makes for a characterful English white that works particularly well with goat’s cheese, asparagus, shellfish and lighter summer dishes.