Bacchus has been buzzing in the English wine scene, and Chapel Down is making a solid case for why this grape deserves a closer look. If Bacchus is England’s answer to Sauvignon Blanc, then Chapel Down’s interpretation is setting the standard for what this variety can achieve on our soils.
Chapel Down’s Bacchus pours a pale, almost translucent gold that hints at its youth and vibrancy. As the glass reaches your nose, expect a burst of elderflower and freshly cut grass, layered with citrus notes like lime zest and grapefruit. It’s not shy—this wine hits you with a floral punch, but in that charming English countryside way rather than overwhelming you. There’s a hint of gooseberry tucked in there too, a nod to its Sauvignon Blanc-like character, but Bacchus has a little more whimsy about it.
Taking a sip, the freshness is immediate and zippy, almost like biting into a crisp apple. The citrus flavours continue to dance on the palate, but there’s a bit more complexity here—think subtle hints of nettle and green herbs that round out the acidity. It’s incredibly clean, with a brisk, dry finish that leaves you wanting another sip. Bacchus doesn’t try to be anything it’s not—it’s vibrant, refreshing, and the perfect wine for a sunny afternoon (or when you wish it was one).
Chapel Down has embraced Bacchus in a big way, turning it into a flagship grape that speaks to the potential of English viticulture. The winery’s approach to this wine reflects a combination of modern techniques and a respect for the terroir, resulting in a bottle that feels distinctly British. If you’re used to sipping New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs, Chapel Down’s Bacchus could be a refreshing detour that still offers that aromatic punch but with a uniquely English twist.
Chapel Down’s Bacchus isn’t just a standout bottle on its own; it’s also a testament to how English wine is evolving beyond its sparkling reputation. For years, English vineyards have been gaining recognition for their world-class sparkling wines, often rivalling Champagne in quality. With cool climates and chalky soils similar to those in Champagne, the conditions are ideal for producing crisp, lively sparkling wines with great finesse. Labels like Chapel Down, Nyetimber, and Gusbourne have become household names in the world of sparkling wine, proving that the UK can do more than just dabble in bubbles—it can master them.
However, English winemakers aren’t stopping at sparkling. Varieties like Bacchus are demonstrating that still wines can hold their own, offering a fresh, aromatic style that appeals to those who appreciate wines with bright acidity and a distinctive regional character. While Bacchus is leading the charge, there’s also growing interest in other varieties, from Pinot Noir to Ortega, as winemakers experiment with what this unique terroir can yield. The resurgence of still wine production in England is showing that there’s more than one way to capture the essence of our countryside in a glass. So, whether you’re popping a cork on a bottle of sparkling or pouring a chilled glass of Bacchus, English wine is undoubtedly making a mark on the global stage.
