How English Sparkling Wine Is Made – The Artelium Way
Our Blanc de Blancs 2018 Traditional Method Sparkling Wine
Crafting Sparkle in Sussex
At Artelium Wine Estate, we believe that making exceptional English sparkling wine is a blend of art, science, and respect for nature. Using the traditional method, our wines reflect the unique terroir of Sussex and the craftsmanship of our winemaking team.
The Vineyard: Where It Begins
Our journey starts in the rolling hills of Sussex, where chalk-rich soils and a cool climate mirror the conditions of Champagne. These elements are essential for growing the classic grape varieties—Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier—that form the backbone of traditional method sparkling wine.
We work closely with our growers and viticultural team to ensure each vine is nurtured with care. Sustainability and biodiversity are central to our approach, because healthy vines make expressive wines.
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Artelium’s Sussex Vineyard
Hand harvesting Pinot Noir graes at Artelium Wine Estate
Harvesting: Timing Is Everything
Harvest takes place in the autumn, when the grapes reach the perfect balance of acidity and sugar. Picking is done by hand to preserve the integrity of the fruit. It’s a time of energy and anticipation, as bins of golden and ruby grapes arrive at the winery, ready to begin their transformation.
Traditional method sparkling wine fermentation tanks
Pressing & First Fermentation
Grapes are gently pressed to extract the finest juice, known as the cuvée. This juice undergoes its first fermentation in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels, depending on the desired style. Here, the sugars are converted into alcohol, and the wine begins to reveal its character.
At Artelium, we often allow the wine to rest on its lees (the spent yeast cells) to develop texture and complexity.
Blending: The Winemaker’s Art
Blending is where science meets intuition. Our winemakers taste and assess each base wine, combining different parcels to create a harmonious whole. This is also the moment to decide whether the wine will be vintage (from a single year) or non-vintage (a blend of years for consistency).
Sparkling wine fermentation in bottle
Second Fermentation: The Sparkle Begins
The blended wine is bottled with a mixture of sugar and yeast—known as the liqueur de tirage. Sealed with a crown cap, the bottles are laid to rest in our cellars. Over weeks and months, a second fermentation occurs inside the bottle, creating the fine bubbles that define sparkling wine.
This is the heart of the traditional method, and it’s what sets English sparkling wine apart.
Aging on Lees: Depth & Elegance
After fermentation, the wine remains in bottle on its lees for an extended period—often 18 months or more. This aging imparts richness, creaminess, and notes of brioche and pastry. At Artelium, we believe in giving our wines time to evolve naturally, allowing their full personality to emerge.
Premium English sparkling wine in storage after disgorgement
Riddling & Disgorgement
Once aging is complete, the bottles are gently rotated (riddled) to move the lees into the neck. They’re then frozen and the sediment is removed (disgorged). A small dosage of sugar and wine may be added to balance the final flavour profile.
Finishing Touches
The bottles are corked, labelled, and ready to be enjoyed. Each one is a reflection of our philosophy: to create wines of beauty, integrity, and place.
Premium English sparkling wine
Discover the Sparkle of Sussex
English sparkling wine is gaining global recognition—and at Artelium, we’re proud to be part of this movement. Whether you’re new to the category or a seasoned enthusiast, we invite you to explore our collection and taste the difference that care, craft, and terroir can make.
Why Choose Artelium Sparkling Wine?
Our wines are crafted with care, rooted in place, and made to be shared. Whether you're celebrating or simply savouring, Artelium sparkling wine brings elegance to every occasion.