The family-run Ridgeview Estate, in the village of Ditchling, East Sussex, beat contenders from 50 countries with its 2002 Merret Bloomsbury, made from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes, as the sparkling wine of the year. Although the respected competition did not include French champagnes in the same category, the award for English wine.

The 16-acre Ridgeview Estate, produces In recent years, climate change has improved by the more than 300 English vineyards production. Demand for English wine has the past year. Experts believe that due to
South of England could eventually overtake region to create top-class vintages .