Grape In Focus: Bacchus

Battle of the Bacchus Wines

This month we are featuring our Battle of the Bacchus Wines with our Bacchus 2021 and our Orpheus Bacchus 2021. These two single varietals are comprised of the very same grape but have vastly unique flavours indeed. The Bacchus grape, first developed in Germany’s Palatinate region in the 1930s, is a cross between Silvaner and Riesling with Müller-Thurgau grapes. Bacchus was aptly named after the Roman God of wine and is suited to cooler climates due to its early ripening characteristics. In general, this is the English answer to Sauvignon Blanc, as its aromas are reminiscent of a delicate Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc.

Our Bacchus 2021 is this quintessential English expression of a very floral and aromatic variety. On the nose, the fresh citrus notes shine brightly as well as aromas of deep elderflower and gooseberry. On the palate, there is a gentle acidity and crispness that lingers long after your first sip. This aromatic yet dry wine offers us a great complexity with the added notes of subtle lychee and pineapple as well. This approachable wine is mouth-watering and exuberant, and pairs well with fresh grilled salmon or sushi. It is the perfect complement to a sunny day in England on a terrace overlooking our vines.

Our Orpheus Bacchus 2021, on the other hand, offers a richer and deeper expression of the Bacchus grape, and is only made in our best years. Its name “Orpheus” reflects the Roman roots of our wine growing region. The Romans first brought vines to British shores as early as 43 BC when the conquest of Great Britain began. According to Roman law, every citizen and slave had a right to wine, and boy did those Romans enjoy a nice cup or two from time to time. At just over a mile from the vineyard, the Orpheus pavement is located in North Woodchester; it is one of the largest and most intricate mosaic floors found in Europe and is part of a Roman palace that dates back to 325 AD. This is the namesake for our Orpheus Bacchus 2021, as the vines used for this single varietal represent some of the oldest vines our vineyard has to offer. In general, this wine is powerful with its ripe flavour, focussed acidity, and unique structure. On the nose, we get rich notes of elderflower and jasmine and a subtle minerality. On the palate, we get hints of lemon peel and fennel to complement its creamy texture, which reflects the portion of grapes that have been barrel fermented. This is a white wine to shock your red wine drinking friends. The Orpheus Bacchus 2021 is a wine of great finesse and precision on the finish. It has a weight to it that allows it to pair perfectly with white meats, creamy fish, or a roaring fire on a crisp English winter day.

Try our Bacchus focussed collections:

Bacchus Trio

Bacchus Collection