Pinot Rose, Woodchester Valley 2023

Fiona and Niall Shiner had been living in Hong Kong for 18 years when they returned to Britain to take on Niall's parents' property at Amberley. Niall continued with his career, but mother-of-three Fiona decided to plant some vines at the property following a comment by her mother-in-law that the Romans could have grown vines there. The first acre was planted in 2007, with the acquisition of an old cattle farm on the (really quite steep) hill opposite and converting an old barn into a winery in 2016. A third vineyard side since been acquired taking the current area under vine (but not all producing grapes yet) to 58 acres (23ish hectares), still firmly in the ‘tiny’ bracket.

This perfect warm weather rosé has an initial aroma of raspberries and fresh cut roses with a hint of lemon zest. Its pale salmon colour complements the subtle strawberry notes. While it is reminiscent of a Provence-style rosé on the nose; on the palate, there is so much more to offer. There are copious amounts of lush strawberries and fresh picked raspberries to accompany those beautiful floral aromas. This rosé also offers us a well-balanced and refreshing acidity, that leaves you wanting more.