Well said! I think that was the implication in your article, but just wanted to be sure in case I happen upon an opportunity to grab a few bottles. Thanks for the write up!
Interesting article. I haven't yet tried an English Sparkler. As an American, these seldom come on my radar. I think the biggest question your article leaves is how was the wine? How does it stand up to other champagnes in that price point? Is this something a long term buyer should consider buying over a Krug or Dom Perignon?
Hi Lorenzo, thank you for your note! Your question is very valid yet quite difficult to answer. A few points before I answer it.
The first, perhaps obvious, is: Krug and Dom Perignon have had centuries to develop their brand and know-how while Gusbourne has only been around for a decade. I do think that, it’s a bit like investing in grower champagne, the brand is lesser known but potential returns are higher. And, let’s not forget, Gusbourne is owned and backed by Michael Ashcroft, an English businessman (and politician) who bought it in 2013 for £7m. That gives me indication that it will be run as strategically as possible and this latest move proves it.
Secondly, on quality, I think the leap forward made over such a short period of time is very encouraging. Perhaps, in addition to the supply constraints, also being in one of the countries at the heart of fine wine collecting/investing influenced the kind of wines produced here.
And last, I certainly would add it to my cellar, perhaps even ahead of Krug (but behind a Dom Perignon). Buying carefully from these best vintages (2014 and 2018) is, in my view, the right strategy when it comes to English sparkling. It is a bit riskier because one knows exactly what to expect from Krug and Dom Perignon in terms of price and evolution in the bottle, but I think 2014 could be a very positive surprise for collectors. Of course, this is my personal opinion and preference.
Well said! I think that was the implication in your article, but just wanted to be sure in case I happen upon an opportunity to grab a few bottles. Thanks for the write up!
Well, thank you for reading!
Interesting article. I haven't yet tried an English Sparkler. As an American, these seldom come on my radar. I think the biggest question your article leaves is how was the wine? How does it stand up to other champagnes in that price point? Is this something a long term buyer should consider buying over a Krug or Dom Perignon?
Hi Lorenzo, thank you for your note! Your question is very valid yet quite difficult to answer. A few points before I answer it.
The first, perhaps obvious, is: Krug and Dom Perignon have had centuries to develop their brand and know-how while Gusbourne has only been around for a decade. I do think that, it’s a bit like investing in grower champagne, the brand is lesser known but potential returns are higher. And, let’s not forget, Gusbourne is owned and backed by Michael Ashcroft, an English businessman (and politician) who bought it in 2013 for £7m. That gives me indication that it will be run as strategically as possible and this latest move proves it.
Secondly, on quality, I think the leap forward made over such a short period of time is very encouraging. Perhaps, in addition to the supply constraints, also being in one of the countries at the heart of fine wine collecting/investing influenced the kind of wines produced here.
And last, I certainly would add it to my cellar, perhaps even ahead of Krug (but behind a Dom Perignon). Buying carefully from these best vintages (2014 and 2018) is, in my view, the right strategy when it comes to English sparkling. It is a bit riskier because one knows exactly what to expect from Krug and Dom Perignon in terms of price and evolution in the bottle, but I think 2014 could be a very positive surprise for collectors. Of course, this is my personal opinion and preference.