644. Tenterden Vineyards, Chapel Down Pinot Reserve, 2005

£25, ??%

Picked up randomly at Albion Café en route to an afternoon callover / meeting at Albion, just before Christmas. And the day after doing the same with 1999 Pol Roger. And this impressed (with Amy preferring this). Pale gold, with a lively, persistent bead – and fine too. On the nose, distinct notes of red fruits – redcurrant and strawberry, alongside some citrus and gentle lees. Very crisp acidity almost balanced (but not quite – my only criticism; slightly unintegrated) by a notable dosage (not sweet; balanced, ‘soft’ dryness). More citrus and berry hints. Medium+ length. Nice to see Chapel Down / Tenterden Vineyards approaching Ridgeview and Nyetimber at the top of the English sparkling pile!