The much heralded 2009 English Vintage lived up to expectations as the results of the UKVA wine of the year competition results were published. A record number of entries and an unprecedented number of medals awarded. In a competition usually dominated by sparkling wines, still wines had a chance to shine .
Bacchus showed exceptionally well, Chapel Down securing the Jack Ward Trophy with its Bacchus 2009, as well as 2 other golds for Bacchus Reserve 2009 and the Tenterden Estate Bacchus 2009 (made by Owen Elias and others), Camel Valley weighed in with Darnibole Bacchus 2009 (no idea where the grapes are from) , Ickworth always interesting, with their Garden Bacchus 2009 .
Pinot Noir ,still to show its full potential as a still, gained a Trophy and a Gold for PlumptonCollege.
The Gore-Browne Trophy went to Ridgeview for their 2001 magnum Grosvener Blanc de Blanc. Ridgeview were also the winemakers for the 2 gold medal winning Gusbourne Estate Sparklers- Classic blend 2006 and Pinot Noir 2007 .
In spite of my best efforts , Sam Lindo – Camel Valley was awarded Winemaker of the year .
Darnibole Bacchus is from a field called Darnibole, part of Camel Valley vineyards. Darnibole is an ancient field name originating from the ancient slate sub soil. Camel Valley Darnibole Bacchus is believed to be the first English terroir wine to be awarded Quality wine staus under the new regualtions, which allow for smaller areas than the vineyard area to be shown on the label – provided 100% of the grapes come from that small area, which they do.