DJ Rampling samples wine-picking for Kingscote Estate harvest

By Mathew Lyons

Published: 06 November, 2015

Sussex-based wine producer Kingscote Estate invited world-famous DJ Danny Rampling to help them close the harvest this year.

Rampling, who lives nearby, is a keen supporter of the winery.

"I'm a big fan of English wine and especially enjoy trying the wines where I live in Sussex," he told Harpers.

"English wine has come on leaps and bounds and is a far more sophisticated product in recent years with hugely passionate and knowledgeable wine producers raising the quality standards.

"I joined the harvest at Kingscote Estate this year. There's nothing like breathing in the fresh air surrounded by stunning views, whilst supporting local business.

"I think it's so important to support local food and wine producers. This is an industry I want to see succeed and grow, and we can all enjoy the fruits of their labour."

Owen Elias, Kingscote's winemaker, said: "This year has turned into a good year for Kingscote. The quality and volume of the yield has been very exciting to see. The aromatics of the Bacchus in particular were excellent.

"The harvest started late and we continued with picking into November.

"A sunny September and October has given us the boost we need after a cool summer. I'm really pleased with the levels of sugars achieved."

The harvest at Kingscote closed yesterday, November 5.

Kingscote is a 150-acre estate with 15 acres currently under vine. Varietals including Bacchus, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Blanc.

The estate was established in 1998 by the late Christen Monge. The first vines were planted in 2010, with the wines coming to market in August 2014.

Kingscote won silver and bronze medals at the Decanter World Wine Awards this year.

"The Kingscote Bacchus is delicious," Rampling said. "It is my favourite wine; the flavours just explode in your mouth."

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