Interview With The Owner Of Ashling Park – Gail Gardner
15th April 2024
There is no denying that English Sparkling Wine is on the rise, becoming an undeniable contender to Traditional Method Sparkling around the world. To the English, it’s becoming a fan favourite and a go-to Glass of Bubbly, its quality is improving year on year and thanks to innovators and those willing to follow their dreams, the choice of English Sparkling Wine is expanding.
In this exclusive feature we speak with Gail Gardner, the incredible owner of Ashling Park in Chichester, England, we’ll find out a little about her life and her sparkling wines.
It’s Lovely To Speak With You Gail, Before We Start Exploring Your Marvelous Range Of Award Winning English Sparkling Wines, Can You Share With Us A Little About Yourself And Your Journey Into Ashling Park?
“I have lived on the estate for 30 years with my family, in-between this time I lived in Switzerland for a few years right in the middle of wine country, the Valais region, which is the country’s largest and most prominent wine region, I fell in love with vineyards then and convinced the family to let me plant some vines in the hay meadow and since then I’ve worked in the English Wine industry for 9 years.”
For Anyone Trying Ashling Park For The First Time, What Label Would You Suggest They Try First?
“Our Ashling Park NV Cuvée – It’s a real crowd pleaser!”
When It Comes To Pairing Sparkling Wine With Food, Do You Have Any Favourite Combinations That You Would Personally Recommend?
“Our Blanc de Blancs with Oysters on a warm summer evening.”
For Anyone Getting Married This Year, Looking For A Perfect Glass Of English Bubbly, Which One Of Your Labels Would You Put Forward For That Very Special Moment?
“Our Sparkling Rosé it’s from 2014, it’s been 10 years in the making and is a very special wine to make the wonderful occasion.”
What Future Plans Can Enthusiasts Of Ashling Park Look Forward To In The Coming Years?
“Next year we may release our wine from the 2019 harvest which includes:
- Ashling Park Blanc De Noirs
- Ashling Park Cuvee 2019 MAGNUM
- Ashling Park Prestige Cuvee Multivintage”
Can You Share With Us One Of The Most Memorable Experiences You’ve Enjoyed With A Glass of Bubbly?
“On my 50 birthday (argh!) on the slopes, in the Swiss mountains, on a beautiful sunny day, surrounded by my closest friends and a glass of Ashling Park of course.”
Thank you Gail, for sharing your story and experiences with us and we at Glass of Bubbly wish you the very best for the future!
Images belong to Gail Gardner. Glass of Bubbly was granted permission to use them.
Oliver Walkey
Champagne and Sparkling Wine Writer, Focused on Bringing the Exciting and Fascinating World of Bubbly to You.