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Bubbles, sunshine and horses at our Spring Tasting Party
Celebrating the launch of our sparkling rosé, Shambolic, and our first event for Members.
Our Spring Tasting Party on 4th April provided the perfect opportunity to launch our sparkling rosé, Shambolic, named after our young elite broodmare. It also marked the first event for our Members and their guests with visits to the vineyard and horses prior to drinks and canapés in the beautiful grounds of Newsells Park Manor whilst basking in glorious sunshine.
On arrival guests were divided into smaller horse-friendly groups to visit different parts of Newsells Park Stud. Stops included the Stallion Barn, where guests were treated to a viewing of all the stallions standing at the stud: A’Ali, Isaac Shelby, Without Parole and Nathaniel. Nathaniel, a top-class racehorse and Classic producing sire, is described by some as a ’national treasure’ and we have named our signature sparkling wine Blanc de Blancs in his honour.
Guests also travelled to the heart of the stud to see mares with their young foals. General Manager, Julian Dollar, introduced guests to several mares including Waldlied, a Group 2-winning sister to Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe winner Waldgeist with her filly foal sired by Japan’s world champion, Equinox.
Just over the hill overlooking the mares and foals, lies the vineyard where guests were invited to stroll and ask questions whilst enjoying the views of the horses grazing in the paddocks. In the vineyard, expert Viticulture Climatologist and CEO of Vinescapes, Dr Alistair Nesbitt, gave an informative talk on the changing climate and how it has positively impacted wine production to the advantage of wineries in England; he also provided an update on the Newsells vineyard planted in 2022. Newsells Vineyard Manager, Scarlett Willson was also on hand to answer any questions on the day-to-day care of the vines, the frost protection used and information about the art of pruning.
Finally, it was back to Newsells Park Manor for a tasting party hosted by owner Graham Smith-Bernal and his wife, Marcela. The terrace was basking in sunlight and guests were treated to glasses of our new Rosé Reserve, Shambolic, a firm favourite! With its pale salmon colour and fine bubbles it was perfect for this idyllic spring day. In addition our Blanc de Blancs, Nathaniel, which displays beautifully the pure linear characteristics of the Chardonnay, was served as well as our Classic Cuveé, Shastye. Our sparkling wines were beautifully paired with delicious canapés prepared by our award-winning local pub, the Fox & Hounds.
