Lyme Bay Chardonnay, Producer
Lyme Bay Winery, based in Devon, is one of England’s pioneering producers of still wines. Their commitment to site selection means that grapes for their Chardonnay come from some of the sunniest and warmest sites in Essex and Kent — areas ideally suited to ripening Chardonnay to full flavour maturity. The winery is known for its small-batch approach and meticulous attention to detail, both in the vineyard and in the cellar.
Lyme Bay Chardonnay, Terroir & Winemaking
Fruit is sourced from mature vines planted on a mix of chalk and sandy loam soils. After hand-harvesting, the grapes undergo gentle pressing and temperature-controlled fermentation. A portion is matured in seasoned oak barrels to impart texture and complexity, while the rest remains in stainless steel to preserve freshness and fruit character. Partial malolactic fermentation and extended lees contact add creamy depth without overwhelming the wine’s vibrant acidity.
Lyme Bay Chardonnay, Tasting Notes
Bright notes of green apple, white peach, and lemon peel open the nose, with subtle undertones of hazelnut and wet stone. The palate is medium-bodied and beautifully balanced — ripe and rounded yet crisp, with a creamy texture offset by zesty citrus lift. A long, mineral-laced finish lingers with hints of baked apple and a whisper of spice.
Did you know?
This wine has become a flagship for English still Chardonnay, demonstrating that with the right vineyard sites, England can produce world-class expressions of this noble grape.
Lyme Bay Chardonnay food pairing suggestion: Pan-Seared Chicken Breast with Tarragon Cream Sauce
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