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Neil Phillips, The Wine Tipster and The Jockey Club’s resident wine and food pairings expert, tips up the best bubbles and wines to enjoy during The Derby.
The Derby 3rd- 4th June is one of the most illustrious sporting events of the season and, as we gear up for the action, there is even more to celebrate, in this, the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year.
The Derby was named after the 12th Earl of Derby and first ran back in 1780 on Epsom Downs, Surrey. Held on Derby Day, the Derby for three-year-olds is a Classic run over a course distance of one mile, four furlongs and 10 yards. It is an undulating course climbing the equivalent height of Nelson's Column and featuring the famous Tattenham Corner.
The feature race of day one, the Group 1 Oaks, is a fillies-only Classic for three-year-olds run over the same course and distance as the Coronation Cup and Derby.
So, whether you are attending in person or watching at home, here are The Wine Tipster’s wine suggestions to enjoy at this, the most prestigious of Derby years.
Nothing says celebration more than a glass of bubbles and one of the most iconic Champagne brands Moët and Chandon is just the ticket for this event. This champagne house is even a fraction older than the Derby and their Grand Vintage Rosé 2012 celebrates the transition from spring to summer. With persistent pink bubbles and red fruit aromas this wine is as iconic as the race itself. A decade-old bottle still packed with potential.
Available from: £63 from Clos19.
As we celebrate all things British this year, why not drink British too. The English sparkling wine market goes from strength to strength and world class traditional method wine producers Nyetimber have a special multi-vintage offering in their collection. The Platinum Jubilee Classic Cuvee, is a limited edition sparkler that offers racing acidity, crisp apples and honey on the palate.
Available from: £37.50 Nyetimber
If the aromatic pull of Prosecco is more your race day companion then Ruggeri Prosecco DOC Millesimato Rosé 2021 is a must try. This salmon pink fizz will kick-start your racing celebrations with just the right amount of ripe cranberries on the nose and persistent bubbles on the palate.
Available from: £15.50 from The Great Wine Company.
If you’re lucky enough to be at the racecourse this year, why not partake of a glass or bottle of the Limited Edition Platinum Jubilee Whispering Angel Rosé 2021 proud partner of the Platinum Jubilee Pageant and its official rosé wine? A hugely popular Provençal style rosé encapsulating the elegance, class and sophistication of the occasion.
Available from: Waitrose, Majestic, Sainsbury’s, Harvey Nichols and Selfridges plus at The Derby itself. £20 - £22.50
Another great option is English still wine, and a fabulous vineyard close to the Surrey racecourse is Denbies in Dorking. Their Denbies Surrey Gold is an appropriately named floral, fragrant white wine that slips down a treat with plenty of English elderflower, spice and citrus. This field blend of cool climate white varieties will have you toasting your success at the racecourse in style.
Available from: £9.99 Waitrose
Staying with still wines and the heart of England, Balfour’s Chardonnay/Ortega 2020 from Kent is a crisp aromatic white with a peachy aroma, lashings of clementines and a salty twang that pairs so well with summer dishes of salads and seafood.
Available from: £14 M&S
If you love the wines of Chile then you will love Morandé 'One to One' Gewürztraminer. An off dry aromatic wine that pairs well with spicier dishes, plus this wine has a unique story. The One to One Gewürztraminer is made from a vineyard where one vine makes one bottle - hence the name. The result in your glass is one of aromatic rose petals, peach and citrus.
Available from: £7.99 Majestic
Fancy a pink blush wine? Look no further than the remarkably priced and award winning Pinot Grigio Rosé from Morrisons. This wine is summer in a bottle and a great way to satisfy most palates.
Available from: £7 Morrisons.
If you love your reds spicy, even in summer, then the value for money and flavour winner has to go to Heredad de Rey Reservada Yecla . A plummy blend of Monsastrell and Syrah, it’s hard to beat the price and the punchy palate. Wines from this part of Spain offer great value and great taste.
Available from: £6.99 Waitrose.
Whatever your pick this Derby, The Wine Tipster wishes you the best of days both on the course and in your glass.
