2013 'Prestige Cuvee 1086', Nyetimber, West Sussex
Sourced from the estate's finest vineyards the wine received extended ageing on the lees and is only released a decade after harvest, this cuvée represents the absolute pinnacle of fine English sparkling wine. The 2010 vintage of 1086 is a blend of chardonnay and pinot noir in the main with a 10% dash of pinot meunier.
The 2010 vintage has proven an excellent year for the estate. 1086 is a beautifully balanced sparkling wine with hints of nougat and truffle on the nose, a flash of shimmering gold in the glass only broken by fine, persistent beads of fizz.
The palate is reminiscent of fine, elegant white Burgundy, theres a lovely intensity of flavour with layer upon layer of orchard fruit, citrus zest, nougat, hints of hazelnut and the most delicate touch of vanilla. There is a mineral core which runs to the finish, which itself is lengthy and complex, it really is quite beautiful.
To my palate the 1086 combines perfectly the defining attributes of two of the most prestigious champagnes, it's a combination of the elegance and finesse found in Dom Pérignon with a weight and depth of flavour I associate more with Krug Grand Cuvée, indeed it is arguably the best of both, the perfect synergy between weight, complexity and finesse.
In Summary...
The 1086 really is up there with the very finest sparkling wines which I have been privileged to taste. So if Dom Pérignon, Krug or Bollinger R.D. are the type of wines which get you excited then I guarantee you that Nyetimber's 1086 will give you every bit as much pleasure (possibly more).
Drink now, or cellar for up to a decade and be one of the first to witness the evolution of what is undoubtedly one of the worlds finest sparkling wines.
- James Russell-Grant, Mr.Wheeler Wine