In our "Champagne and English Sparkling Wine" tasting, we think the "and" is the critical word.  When choosing a sparkling wine for a given occasion, special or otherwise, in the eyes of consumers the two region's wines increasingly sit side by side, with the wines chosen on merit (and perhaps a perception of "value").  The choice of Champagne is often bewildering with more Champagne made in any given year than the entire wine production of New Zealand.  While the choice of English sparkling wine gets more varied every year, the relatively small volumes under cork means there is a strong argument that English sparkling wines are much more exclusive than their French counterparts.

We will taste in pairs across a variety of styles, ranging from "pink" to Blanc de Blancs through to two of the best known vintage wines made to the methode champanoise: Nyetimber Tillington 2013 and Veuve Clicquot, La Grande Dame 2008, two wines from excellent vintages on either side of the Channel.  We anticipate a lively evening of debate where, we hope, conjecture will give way to passion based on an informed choice. Oh and by the way, this will be a lot of fun!  This is a tasting not to be missed.

We will taste the following cuvées:

English Sparkling Wines:

• Wiston Estate Rose NV

• Hambledon Premiere Cuvee NV

• Gusborne Estate Blanc de Blancs 2013

• Nyetimber Tillington 2013

Champagne:

• Gosset Grande Reserve Rose NV

• Laherte Freres Les Emprientes 2012

• Pierre Gimmonet Blanc de Blancs NV

• Veuve Clicquot, La Grande Dame 2008 

There are only 72 places available, so members are urged to apply promptly. Tickets are priced at £50 for members and £60 for guests.

If you have any questions, please contact the organiser, Iain Connor, on 020 7418 8260 or at iain.connor@pinsentmasons.com.