www.giffordshall.co.uk Hartest, Bury St Edmunds, IP29 4EX
I tried some more Giffords’ wines the other day. Looking at my notes I do seem to get a lot of English blossom and hedgerow aromas from their wine – which must be coming through from where they’re grown – their terroir.
Giffords Hall Suffolk Pink: this pale salmon-coloured sparkling wine has soft and subtle red fruit flavours with a little citrus, hedgerow and brioche. Although made by the traditional method, the aromas are predominantly fruity rather than of the lees. Its gentle flavour and mousse won’t overpower delicately flavoured food. It would also make a pleasant apéritif.
Giffords Hall Madeleine Angevine: a very light, refreshing white wine with subtle apple, pear and herbaceous aromas.
St Edmundsbury: this deep Ruby wine is named after the local cathedral – where vines were grown within the Abbey walls. It is a Pinot Noir/Rondo blend but its plummy notes reminded me of Merlot! It has soft tannins and aromas of plum, damson, vanilla, cedar and baked fruit. Medium bodied and off dry – easy to drink on its own but also a good wine to match with food such as pasta.
Classic Cuvée: this medium bodied sparkler has lots of citrus aromas of lemon and lime plus a little brioche. Some floral notes – dry and elegant.
