Bancroft backs new English sparkler

Bancroft Wines has taken on a new English sparkling wine from Kent that aims to fill the gap between Prosecco and a Champagne on a wine list.

Westwell Wines founder Rids and John Rowe

Called Pelegrim (meaning “pilgrim” in middle English) the traditional method sparkler is produced by Westwell Wines on the chalky slopes of the North Downs. The name tips its hat to the nearby Pilgrims Way, which stretches to Canterbury.

Run by husband and wife duo John and Rids Rowe, Westwell Wines boasts 5.5 hectares of vines and currently produces around 4,000 bottles of fizz a year.

Pelegrim NV Extra Dry will be sold primarily to the on-trad, where it is expected to sell for around £8-10 a glass, and Bancroft will represent Pelegrim exclusively in the UK.

The non-vintage sparkler is made from a blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay and spends 18-24 months on its lees for added depth.

According to its makers, the wine boasts aromas of “apples, raspberries and sourdough with a full palate and a lemon twist at the end”.

“We’re proud to be partnering with Bancroft. Our shared values, passion and reputation creates a fantastic platform to launch our on-trade inspired Pelegrim sparkling wine across the country,” said founders John and Rids Rowe.

“We’re confident that the quality and stylish packaging is a winning combination and that the sharp price point will surprise and delight in equal measure,” David Murphy, head of purchasing for Bancroft, added.

“With a tremendous year ahead for English sparkling wine it’s exciting to be working with something home-grown, knowing the muddy fields of the vineyards are only a couple of hours away,” said Bancroft’s brand and communications manager, Sophie McLean.

“Pelegrim proves that English sparkling doesn’t have to be inaccessible on price, and has every reason to rival the better-known traditional method wines from elsewhere,” she added.