(written exclusively for Absolutely Sussex and published in their November 2024 edition)
Fizz with Flair
Pet Nat, or pétillant naturel if you’re feeling fancy, is the original gangster of sparkling wines — bottled before fermentation finishes, creating a natural fizz with a raw, unfiltered charm. Now, let’s talk about Titch Hill’s version: it’s bursting with peach, honey, and a playful elderflower twist. Unfiltered and unpolished, it’s pure fizzy fun in a bottle—Sussex style!
Sip, Read, Repeat!
BookBar is not your average bookstore — it's where book lovers and wine enthusiasts come together for the ultimate cosy hangout. With shelves brimming with carefully curated reads and a wine list designed to match, it’s the place to relax, sip, and get lost in a great story. Perfect for a catch-up with friends, a book club meet-up, or just a solo escape.
Pinot with a Twist
Pinot Noir Précoce is the cool, lesser-known sibling of Pinot Noir, and London Cru has bottled its unique charm. This early-ripening mutation brings a bit of extra brightness and elegance to the classic Pinot Noir profile. Expect notes of raspberry and cherry and a silky finish. Crafted right in the heart of London, it’s a must-try for lovers of all things unexpected and refined!
Mousehall Country Estate: Crafting Wine, Spirits, and History
Tucked away in the tranquil Sussex countryside, Mousehall is a family-run estate that blends historic charm with modern winemaking. First recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, the property was given new life in 2017 by Gary and Kathy Jordan, the owners of Jordan Wine Estate in South Africa. They transformed the once-forgotten site into a vibrant distillery and winery, skillfully balancing tradition with innovation.
Mousehall’s Tidebrook wine range is a pure adventure in a bottle. Their 2022 maiden vintage includes the playful Six Petals Rosé, full of fresh hedgerow fruit and creamy brioche; the Staddle Stone Chardonnay, with zesty citrus and a touch of butter popcorn from 12 months in French oak; and The Tipping Point Pinot Noir, an elegant sip with crunchy strawberry and a hint of toast. Each bottle brims with the estate’s unique character and the Jordans' expert touch.
But Mousehall isn’t just about wine. Their distillery, one of the first in the UK to merge distilling with winemaking, offers spirits that blend the best of English and South African influences, including an acclaimed gin crafted from 13 botanicals.
Looking to extend your stay ? Mousehall’s guest house, a renovated 18th-century oast house, is the perfect retreat for those seeking relaxation amidst ancient woodlands, hedgerows, and vineyards in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Ready for a countryside escape ? Book your visit to Mousehall Country Estate and dive into a world of exceptional wine, spirits, and serenity!
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