Shocking though it might appear to California sparkling wine lovers and Champagne purists alike, but the best of British bubbly is highly likely to be the toast of London town this Friday, as a cacophony of corks pop in unison at Buckingham Palace in toast to the by-then newly-wed Prince William and his bride.
The rise in vineyard plantings in the South of England's chalky, limestone, sometimes clay soils has spiralled over the past decade, as savvy growers have taken advantage of a warming trend in a region that is positioned less than 100 miles North of Champagne, France.
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grow well in cool climate soils, making these three varietals optimal in sparkling wines, a smart choice for small production exclusivity in a market that can't get enough of the real, 'local' thing in all aspects of artisan food and wine.
Still sceptic? Take a look at American-owned Nyetimber Estate and Manor, a probable front-runner for Friday's big bash. Absolutely fabulous, wouldn't mind a pit-stop to taste on-site when next in West Sussex.
Decanter Magazine named neighboring East Sussex vineyards' Ridgeview Estate as producer of Best Sparkling Wine in the World. Good enough for the Queen's 80th birthday celebrations in 2006, another likely contender this Friday.
BBC America's live Royal Wedding coverage commences at the stroke of midnight, California time. Unless you're going to be gripped by every tiny detail from the streets of London and glued to the tele' all night long, take note - the actual ceremony takes place in Westminster Abbey at 11 am GMT, so that'll be 3 am here in CA.
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