English sparkling wine declared 'as good as Champagne'

English sparkling wine is building a strong global reputation Credit: ITV News

British wine-makers have reason to be bubbly as their fizz has officially been declared as good as that from the Champagne region of France.

Bluebell Vineyard Estates in East Sussex has just taken home a string of top International Wine Challenge awards,beating other producers from around the world.

More than six million bottles have been made this year - up by almost half as UK vineyards expand their operation to keep up with growing demand. Much of the improvement is to do with the changing climate.

As temperatures inch higher, one of Bluebell's wine-makers told ITV News that Britain was creeping ever-closer to the ideal grape-growing atmosphere - while the world-renowned and highly-celebrated part of France was in danger of becoming too warm.

The vineyard in Sussex has recently won a slew of international awards Credit: ITV News
The improvement is said to be down to climate change Credit: ITV News

A warm spring so far has raised hopes that this year's crop of Chardonnay and Pinor Noir grapes will produce a third excellent vintage in a row, and further enhance the reputation of English sparkling wine.

Producers are now hoping to trademark the Sussex wine brand, in line with Cornish clotted cream and Stilton cheese.

ITV News correspondent Richard Pallot has the full story: