Get to know: Black Chalk Paragon 2020
A beautifully crafted English sparkling wine made entirely from Chardonnay grown in Hampshire’s chalky soils – elegant, complex, and full of finesse.
Tasting Note
Black Chalk Paragon 2020 is a pure and expressive Blanc de Blancs sparkling wine that captures the best of English Chardonnay. Pale gold in colour, it opens with delicate aromas of green apple, lemon curd, and toasted hazelnut, alongside a touch of brioche from ageing on the lees. On the palate, it’s precise and layered, showing bright citrus fruit, crisp acidity, and a creamy texture that comes from a blend of oak and stainless-steel ageing. The finish is long and beautifully balanced, with a fine mousse and a whisper of minerality that speaks of Hampshire’s chalky terroir. A classy, confident English fizz with real depth and poise.
Top food pairings:
- Fresh oysters or shellfish platters
- Lemon and thyme roast chicken
- Goat’s cheese tart or grilled asparagus
Kate Says
“This is pure class – crisp, elegant and endlessly drinkable. The kind of English sparkling that makes you proud to pour local.”
Producer Info
Black Chalk is a family-run estate in Hampshire’s beautiful Test Valley, producing some of the most exciting English wines around. Founded by winemaker Jacob Leadley in 2015, the team are known for their down-to-earth approach and precision winemaking. Their vineyards thrive on Hampshire’s signature chalk soils, giving natural freshness and structure to their wines. Every bottle is a reflection of their belief that English wine should be expressive, honest, and full of personality.
How it’s made:
- Varieties: 100% Chardonnay (clones 95, 121, 76, 131)
- Grapes hand-harvested from the Upper Levels vineyard for purity and balance
- 54% aged in stainless steel, 46% aged in oak casks for texture and depth
- No malolactic fermentation to preserve bright acidity
- Minimal intervention and no fining for natural expression
Good to know:
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Region: Hampshire, England
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Style: Sparkling Blanc de Blancs
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Closure: Cork
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Vegan: Yes
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ABV: 12.5%
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Vintage: 2020
Why we love it:
This stunning Hampshire Chardonnay sparkling wine shows the precision and elegance that make English fizz world-class. Complex yet refreshing, it’s a brilliant choice for special occasions or any moment that calls for a glass of something truly refined.