A Toast to the English Summer with the Rosé Festival at Balfour Winery

By European Editor, Francesca Bridgewater FCIM

Nestled in the heart of Kent, the highly reputed Wine Garden of England, Balfour Winery boasts a history dating back to 2002 and has swiftly risen to become a beacon of British viticulture. Celebrated for its commitment to excellence and innovation, Balfour Winery is not just a place to savour world-class wines but a destination that encapsulates the charm and elegance of English countryside life. This summer, Balfour’s Woodland in the Winery Festival stood out as a must-visit event, offering a delightful blend of wine tasting masterclasses, live music and gastronomic experiences with widespread appeal for ages and levels of wine knowledge.

A Legacy of Excellence

Balfour Winery, situated on the picturesque Hush Heath Estate, has garnered acclaim for its exceptional sparkling and still wines. The estate’s meticulous approach to winemaking, coupled with the unique terroir of Kent, has produced wines that rival those from more traditional wine regions.

Co-founders Richard and Leslie Balfour-Lynn planted the first vineyards at Balfour Winery in 2002 on the picturesque Hush Heath Estate in Kent. The inaugural vineyard, Oast House Meadow, featured a blend of three classic Champagne varieties: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. It wasn’t until 2010 that the winery established its own production facilities and visitor centre. In 2018, the estate further expanded with the addition of a new Cellar Door building, which includes a state-of-the-art Visitor Centre designed to host tours, tastings, and special events. Among its celebrated offerings, the Nannette’s Rosé 2023 has captured the attention of critics and wine enthusiasts alike.

Nannette’s Rosé 2023: This exquisite rosé, named in honour of Nannette, the daughter of winery founders Leslie and Richard Balfour-Lynn, epitomizes the elegance and sophistication of Balfour wines. With a vibrant pink hue, Nannette’s Rosé 2023 boasts a bouquet of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and red currants. Its crisp acidity and delicate floral notes make it a refreshing choice for summer, perfectly suited for both casual sipping and pairing with a variety of dishes.

Critics have praised Nannette’s Rosé 2023 for its balance and finesse. The wine’s ability to capture the essence of the Kentish terroir while offering a modern, approachable profile has been a key factor in its popularity. Wine Spectator notes, «Nannette’s Rosé 2023 is a testament to the potential of English rosé, delivering a delightful combination of fruitiness and elegance.»

Winning a gold medal at the Rosé Global Wine Masters, the wine is a blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay grapes grown in the clay Hush Heath vineyards. It has a pale colour and a delicate aroma, with tasting notes of summer berries, raspberry, strawberry, and thyme. Some say the wine is crisp and light, with a vibrant and zingy palate. Others describe it as «English summer in a bottle». Nannette’s Rosé pairs well with summer salads, light seafood dishes, or soft cheeses. It’s also suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Nannette’s vineyard at Balfour Winery is embraced by wildflower meadows on three sides, reflecting the winery’s dedication to nature. For every bottle of Nannette’s Rosé sold, Balfour Winery donates to the Kent Wildlife Trust, supporting their rewilding efforts through the «Perfect Pairing» campaign. This initiative aims to restore wildflower meadows across the UK, enhancing biodiversity while enriching the wine-drinking experience. The campaign includes floral displays at the winery and pubs, along with at-home rewilding kits, fostering a deeper connection between nature and wine.

Balfour Brut Rosé 2019: Since 2004, this pink sparkler has garnered international acclaim, becoming the first English wine to win both a trophy and a gold medal at the International Wine Challenge.

The Balfour Brut Rosé 2019 is a testament to Balfour Winery’s mastery in crafting exceptional English sparkling wines. This exquisite vintage showcases the meticulous attention to detail and innovative winemaking techniques that the estate is renowned for. Composed of a harmonious blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier, the Brut Rosé 2019 boasts a delicate salmon hue and a persistent, fine mousse. On the nose, it presents a vibrant bouquet of wild strawberries, redcurrants, and hints of rose petals, intertwined with subtle brioche undertones that speak to its time spent aging on lees.

The palate delivers bright acidity balanced by creamy texture and sophisticated minerality. The red berry flavours are complemented by a touch of citrus zest and a whisper of almond, leading to a long and lingeringly elegant finish. This sparkling rosé embodies Kent’s unique terroir and exemplifies Balfour’s commitment to sustainable viticulture and traditional winemaking methods. Perfect for both celebratory occasions and as a refined aperitif, it stands as a stellar example of the potential and prestige of English sparkling wine.

The Rosé Festival: A Celebration of Wine and Community

The Rosé Festival at Balfour Winery was more than just a wine tasting event; it became a celebration of community, culture, and the art of winemaking. Held in mid-summer, it offered an immersive experience for all attendees.

Wine Tasting and Tours

Guests were given the opportunity to taste the full range of Balfour’s acclaimed wines, with a special focus on their rosé collection. Expert-led tours of the vineyard and winery offer insights into the winemaking process, from grape to glass with this hands-on experience allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into each bottle.

Gastronomic Delights

Complementing the wines were gourmet food stalls featuring local produce and artisanal delicacies. From fresh oysters to charcuterie boards, the culinary offerings have all been designed to enhance the wine-tasting experience. A highlight was the Woodland in the Winery dining experience set amidst the enchanting woodland of the estate where guests could indulge in a multi-course meal paired with Balfour wines, creating a harmonious blend of flavours and aromas.

Live Music and Entertainment

Adding to the festive atmosphere was a lineup of live music performances. Local bands and solo artists provided the perfect soundtrack to an afternoon of wine and relaxation. The combination of music, wine, and the idyllic setting making for a truly memorable experience.

Family-Friendly Activities

Recognising that wine festivals can be a family affair, Balfour Winery arranged a variety of activities for children. From guided nature walks to creative workshops, there was something to keep the younger visitors entertained while the adults enjoy the wine in tranquil surroundings.

A Destination for All Seasons

While the Rosé Festival was a real highlight of the English summer, Balfour Winery is a destination that offers something special year-round. The estate’s scenic beauty, combined with its rich history and innovative approach to winemaking, makes it a perfect getaway for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Seasonal Events

Throughout the year, Balfour Winery hosts a range of events, from harvest celebrations to festive markets. Each event is designed to showcase the best of the season, offering visitors a chance to experience the estate in different lights.

Sustainable Practices

Committed to environmental stewardship, Balfour Winery employs sustainable farming practices with a dedication to biodiversity, evident in the vineyards and surrounding woodlands, which are home to a variety of wildlife.

Elevating the Experience

«English wine tourism is truly flourishing, and it’s thrilling to be part of this growth” commented Balfour’s dynamic brand ambassador, Janina Doyle. “We’re also incredibly fortunate to have such a magical and beautiful estate to welcome visitors. Rosé is one of our specialties here at Balfour Winery, so we felt it was the perfect time to showcase the exceptional quality and diversity of our rosé portfolio. With our rewilding campaign in full swing, it’s inspiring to see people celebrating sustainability with a glass of Nannette’s Rosé in hand, knowing that every bottle sold supports the Kent Wildlife Trust. Witnessing the excitement for both the quality of English rosé and the positive environmental impact we’re creating together is truly energizing.”

The Rosé Festival at Balfour Winery is a vibrant celebration of everything that makes the estate truly exceptional: world-class wines, refined cuisine, breathtaking scenery and a warm, welcoming community. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just beginning your journey into the world of wine, this festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to dive into the rich and evolving English wine scene.

By European Editor, Francesca Bridgewater FCIM

More information: andes@andeswines.com / +569 3251 7848