GUSBOURNE, a leading winery representing the UK, is gaining attention as a new wine-producing region. The first vintage of its premium vintage sparkling wine, '51°N', which made headlines in the UK in 2022 as the most expensive British wine ever, has made its debut in Japan. Sales in Japan are limited to 120 bottles, with staggered releases beginning in May 2023.

GUSBOURNE was founded in Kent in 2004 by its founder, Andrew Weaver. The winery is renowned for its luxurious and artisanal approach to winemaking, consistently earning high praise from wine critics. It is the only producer to have won the 'English Wine Producer of the Year' award at the IWSC (the most historic international wine and spirit competition, held in London) a record three times.

While many wineries in the UK purchase grapes from farmers, Gusbourne exclusively uses grapes from its own vineyards for winemaking and has practiced sustainable cultivation methods since its inception.

Gusbourne wines have been served at the 2012 London Olympics Official Opening Ceremony reception, in hotels worldwide, and at Michelin-starred restaurants. In Japan, it was the first British wine to be featured in the JAL First Class Lounge in 2022.

'51°N' is a premium vintage sparkling wine that garnered attention upon its release in the UK in 2022 as 'Britain's Most Expensive Wine Ever'. The name derives from the winery's vineyards being located at 51 degrees North latitude.

In the wine industry, 49 degrees North latitude has long been considered the northernmost limit for winemaking, with the UK traditionally deemed too cold for grape cultivation. However, due to climate change, the UK is now producing high-quality wines.

This wine is from the exceptional 2014 vintage. It is a premium sparkling wine crafted from a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from Gusbourne's own vineyards in Kent and West Sussex. The must was extracted to the utmost purity and aged for over six years on its lees.

Sales in Japan are limited to 120 bottles, and it will be available at Isetan Shinjuku, online shops, and select domestic restaurants. Why not take this opportunity to try Gusbourne's most expensive British wine, a release honed over a decade?

Gusbourne 51°N 2014
Price | ¥42,000 (excluding tax)
Retailers |
Isetan Shinjuku Grand Cave (scheduled for mid-May release)
BBR Japan (scheduled for mid-May release) https://www.bbr.co.jp/