Hannah Crosbie in The Guardian newspaper explains how many supermarkets now offer their own-label English sparkling wines, which are sourced from producers and bottled under their name. Some disclose the producer, while others keep it confidential to maintain the brand’s prestige. These own-label sparkling are significantly cheaper than regular English sparkling wines, which usually cost at least £30-£40.
The high cost of English sparkling wine is due to expensive production factors. Labour costs in the UK are much higher than in some other wine-producing countries, where workers can be underpaid. Additionally, setting up a vineyard and winery in the UK is costly, as estates are not typically inherited, and the necessary equipment and infrastructure require significant investment.
Supermarket own-label English sparkling wines are now available from as little as £14. These wines are not necessarily inferior in quality but are often made differently. They may come from younger vines, use non-champagne grape varieties, or spend less time ageing on lees. Some are produced using the charmat method, which is cheaper than the traditional champagne method.
Hannah recommends:
Tesco Finest English Sparkling Wine (£21, 11.5%) is a ripe and brioche-scented blend of champagne varieties made by Balfour.
Bowler & Brolly English Sparkling Wine (£17.99, Aldi, 12%) offers great value, though its producer occasionally changes.
Morrisons The Best English Sparkling Wine (£24, 12%) is notably rich and is rumoured to be made by a prestigious winemaker.
M&S Bramble Hill English Sparkling (£14.15, Ocado, 11%) is a light, citrussy fizz made using the charmat method, which explains its lower price.
