Simpsons Gravel Castle Chardonnay 2024

Unoaked English Chardonnay? Think lean, racy, and not a million miles from Chablis, and you're on the right track. Sourced from vineyards on the North Downs near Canterbury, it's got delicate aromas of white melon and orange blossom, backed up by a superb mouth-watering minerality. On the palate, there’s citrus peel, quince, and fresh green apple, with a lingering, textured finish. A bit of time on the lees adds subtle savoury notes and a touch more depth, but crisp citrus and stone fruit stay front and centre. Super-fresh, mineral-driven, and straight to the point - poised and full of character.

Great as an aperitif, but just as happy alongside food. Try it with fresh oysters or garlic butter prawns, where the bright minerality shines. Creamy tarragon chicken or a ripe Tunworth cheese? Spot on.

Simpsons Wine Estate is run by husband-and-wife team Charles and Ruth Simpson, who bring winemaking savoir-faire honed at their South of France estate to the Elham Valley. Nestled in the North Downs of Kent, the vineyards sit on lime-rich chalk soils - part of the same seam that runs through Champagne and Burgundy - and benefit from cooling maritime breezes just eight miles from the coast. The result is wines with clarity, freshness and poise. Combining international experience with a strong sense of place, Simpsons has emerged as a thoughtful and distinctive presence in English wine.