(written exclusively for Kent Life and published in their March 2024 edition)
March is here, bringing with it a breath of fresh air, the first signs of spring, and of course, International Women’s Day. What better way to celebrate than by raising a glass of something as vibrant and stylish as the women we’re toasting? Enter rosé — the quintessential drink of long lunches, garden parties, and, well, pretty much any occasion that calls for a splash of fun in a glass.
Rosé isn’t just a summer fling anymore — we’ve fallen head over heels for it. Once dismissed as a “girly drink,” it’s now a serious contender in the wine world, with premium rosé sales having grown by nearly 19% last year. And why not ? Rosé is versatile, elegant, and ridiculously Instagrammable — the perfect companion to March’s promise of lighter evenings and floral blooms.
While Provence may have stolen the rosé spotlight for decades, it’s time to let you in on a little secret: English rosé is having a moment. And one name leading the charge is Folc, a Kent-based producer whose wines are rewriting the rosé rulebook.
Folc, meaning “people, tribe, family” in Old English, was born out of a love for community and a vision to elevate English rosé to world-class status. Founded in 2019 by Elisha and Tom Cannon, Folc has quickly become a name to watch. Their rosé is made with hand-selected grapes sourced from the best vineyards across South East England, working closely with local, family-run vineyards who share their commitment to quality and sustainability. It’s a true celebration of collaboration and craftsmanship.
“Our goal has always been to show the world we can make amazing rosè in England,” says Tom Cannon. “We wanted to create a wine that’s dry, fresh, undeniably delicious, and proudly English. Every vintage we blend a combination of different grape varieties from the South East to achieve our desired taste profile. It’s about showing what our local vineyards can truly achieve and that we can rival our Provence cousins.”
And they’ve certainly nailed that. Folc’s rosé is a blend of seven grape varieties, including Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay, and Bacchus, bursting with notes of strawberry, lemon, and a delicate touch of spice. It’s fresh, lively, and, dare I say, dangerously drinkable. Its silky mouthfeel means it will pair beautifully with seared salmon, creamy goat cheese tartlets, or a vibrant Mediterranean salad.
But Folc isn’t just about creating amazing wine. “We are about supporting the local economies and the skilled folk that made it and spreading the word,” Tom explains. “We want consumers to get behind our brilliant wine industry and discover the joy of English rosé.” It’s a mindset that goes beyond just bottles and blends. By championing local vineyards and sustainable practices, Folc is helping to grow the reputation of English wine while encouraging a new wave of wine enthusiasts to explore what’s on their doorstep.
The accolades speak for themselves. Folc has racked up multiple awards, including at the Independent English Wine Awards, the International Wine Challenge, and Harpers Wine & Spirits Competition — no small feat for a relatively young brand. These honors not only highlight the quality of Folc’s rosé but also reinforce the growing respect for English wine on a global stage. It’s clear: Folc isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s part of a movement redefining what English winemaking can achieve.
Whether you’re planning a leisurely brunch, a girls' night in, or simply a moment to toast to spring, Folc’s rosé is a glass of sunshine waiting to be poured. It’s the perfect way to celebrate all the vibrancy and resilience of International Women’s Day — and let’s be honest, any excuse to pop open a bottle of something fabulous is a good one!
Comments