Sandridge Barton Little Bee Skin Contact Pinot Gris 2024

Pinot Gris lends itself neatly to skin-contact wines, and that really comes through here. The grape's natural texture and gentle spice give some grip without weighing the wine down. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, it keeps all its intended character, even if in the glass it might look slightly hazy. The flavour is what matters: orchard fruit, soft citrus and a savoury edge, carried on a fresh, easy-drinking frame. Character and approachability here are pretty well aligned.

At its best with simple food - charcuterie, roasted veg, lightly spiced dishes - though perfectly enjoyable on its own.

Originally known as Sharpham Estate, Sandridge Barton was one of the those that helped English wine get established, planting its first vines on the River Dart back in the 1980s and proving that Devon could do more than cream teas. In 2020 the whole operation crossed the river to Sandridge Barton near Stoke Gabriel, swapping its old home for a larger estate with limestone soils and room to grow. The winemaking remains firmly in-house, with estate fruit only and a leaning towards wild ferments. New name, new site, but the same pioneering streak.