'Finally we can come to England and drink the local stuff'

English wine - can it pass muster with the experts? A blind tasting was set up by Stephen Spurrier, the legendary wine expert who organized the Paris Wine Tasting of 1976, which promoted the expansion of wine production in the new world.

In that remarkable tasting session the experts chose Californian wines in favour of French and caused an absolute uproar. This time, Mr Spurrier invited members of the influential Académie du Vin to Sussex, to blind test sparkling wines from local vinyards Nyetimber and Ridgeview.

Could they compete with their continental rivals? See for yourself what the experts said.

Government wine cellars stock up with English

Good to know that one of our own from Chapel Down has found favour with the officials in charge of topping up the Government's wine cellars.

Chapel Down Bacchus 2010 – we'll have 2,400 bottles

They already have quite a few in store –  around 38,000 bottles at last count, costing £857,000 when bought, but are now valued on the open market at £2,953,000.

French wines have proved to be most popular over the past year, Mark Simmonds, the Foreign Office minister said. However officials also bought 2,400 bottles of the English wine, Chapel Down Bacchus 2010.

In case there's any charge of favouritism for the home-grown product, the wine in the Government cellar is chosen through blind tasting by the Government Wine Committee, which is chaired by former diplomat Sir David Wright.

Chapel Down Bacchus Reserve 2010

"An aromatic kaleidoscope ranging from eldeflower to ginger by way of pear, passion fruit and plum." Bob Tyrer, The Sunday Times 30th October 2011.

Chapel Down Bacchus Reserve 2010

"Proof that England can do more than make excellent sparkling wines! A one trick pony we are not! With its mineralistic edge and well balanced acidity this is a very refreshing and impressive wine. Slight citrus and floral notes give it a playful edge. One of my guests even asked if this was a Chablis. Whilst this may equally be a reflection of his palate I’d prefer to see this as well deserved high praise for Chapel Down!" Richard Saxton, 'The Grapoed Crusader" 11 July 2011