Country: Wales
Region: Monmouth, South East Wales
Viticulture: Certified organic and biodynamic farming. The vines are grown on south-facing slopes of ancient mudstone, sandstone and limestone soils, benefiting from the sheltered rain shadow of the Monnow Valley. Extensive canopy management and the Geneva Double Curtain trellising system maximise sunlight and airflow in this cool-climate vineyard, while biodiversity and soil health are prioritised through hand-crafted biodynamic preparations and chemical-free farming.
Grapes: 52% Pinot Noir, 32% Chardonnay, 10% Ortega & Solaris field blend
Vinification: Hand-harvested with fruit sorted in the vineyard before whole bunch pressing. Fermented naturally in stainless steel using indigenous yeasts, with temperatures gently moderated by the winery's straw bale construction. Produced using Ancre Hill's unique Entr'acte method, blending the 2024 base wine with fresh, unfermented juice from the 2025 harvest to create a naturally sparkling pétillant naturel. Underwent malolactic fermentation with no fining or filtration and minimal sulphur addition, resulting in a beautifully pure expression of the vineyard.
Tasting note and best served with:
A beautifully textured Welsh Pet Nat with a delicate cream-coloured mousse and layers of orchard fruit, roasted mushroom and earthy complexity. Aromas of baked apple and poached pear emerge with time, while the palate is gently sparkling, savoury and wonderfully mouth-filling, balanced by vibrant freshness and a long, dry finish. Serve chilled with oysters, grilled fish, soft cheeses, charcuterie or seasonal vegetable dishes.
Producer and terroir information:
Ancre Hill is one of the pioneers of biodynamic Welsh wine, producing some of the UK's most acclaimed sparkling and natural wines. Founded by Richard and Joy Morris near Monmouth, the estate has earned an international reputation for its uncompromising approach to biodynamic viticulture and minimal-intervention winemaking. Every decision in the vineyard is guided by a commitment to soil health, biodiversity and expressing the unique character of this remarkable Welsh site.
The home vineyard sits on ancient mudstone, sandstone and limestone soils, with south-facing slopes providing ideal exposure in Wales' cool climate. Sheltered by the Monnow Valley rain shadow, the site enjoys lower rainfall than much of the surrounding region, helping grapes ripen with exceptional balance and freshness. Fermentations rely on indigenous yeasts, sulphur is kept to an absolute minimum, and wines are bottled without fining or filtration, allowing every bottle to capture the purity and vitality of the vineyard.
10% ABV