A Conversation at Corkk

A couple of weeks ago, we spent an afternoon at Corkk with Jonathan Piggins and Clive Barlow MW - tasting, talking, and enjoying the most interesting space for English wine in Canterbury.

Amongst the bottles and conversations, we asked Clive a few questions about where English wine is today - and where it’s heading.

On Corkk

What is your connection to Corkk?

“I began working with Corkk in 2019, when Jonathan Piggins asked me to help build a business focused on showcasing the quality and diversity of English wine.Since then, it’s grown into two hybrid shops - offering wines by the bottle as well as by the glass through dispensers - which is a great way for people to explore and learn.I now act as buyer for the wines and also run tastings and events.”

On English wine right now

How do you see English wine evolving at the moment?“

The dynamic development is most exciting. Seeing businesses grow and flourish, and people investing time and passion in their wines.Ultimately, it’s seeing and tasting great wines — still, red, white and rosé, alongside super premium sparkling. These were rare 15 years ago. Now, every vintage brings something special.”

On Pinot Noir and the future of English red

Our Pinot Noir was described by another MW as the future of English red wine — why do you think that is?

“Pinot Noir is arguably the greatest red variety in the world. It reflects its origins, is aromatic, and delivers plentiful fruit on a relatively light palate.

England’s cool climate is a perfect one for the variety. We are right on the margins of ripening, which brings nuance and delicacy, as well as variation between vintages.

As vines mature and we better understand where to plant it, we should see more very good and fine expressive wines being made.”

On discovering English wine

For those just starting to explore English wine, where should they begin?

“In Kent, there are two excellent festivals — the Canterbury Wine Festival in May and the Wine Garden of England Summer Festival in June.

For a broader view, the WineGB website is a great place to start.”

For more information on Corkk and their upcoming events head to : https://www.corkk.co.uk/ or visit them at 29/30 Burgate, Canterbury and 52a High Street, Tunbridge Wells