Perspective Observed: Our Latest Vinous Scores
In the world of fine wine, perspective is everything. While a score is rarely the final word, when it comes from a voice as rigorous as Anne Krebiehl MW, it provides a valuable moment to pause and observe our progress.
We are delighted to share our latest reviews from Vinous. Having long admired Anne’s scholarly approach to cool-climate regions, we find her observations particularly resonant. Her assessment places several Digby wines at the pinnacle of the English sparkling wine category; a result that leaves us feeling spirited and encouraged by our ongoing direction.
The Scores
- 2014 Vintage Brut Reserve — 95 points Anne describes this flagship blend as “simply wonderful,” noting a bright, understated nose that defies its ten-year age. Swirling the glass reveals a touch of custard, leading to a palate of creamy yellow fruit and a “deep-running lemon purity.” After seven years on the lees, it remains long, elegant, and beautifully balanced.
- 2018 Vintage Rosé Brut — 94 points A wine suited for the table, this vintage captures the ripeness of the 2018 harvest. Anne notes a delightful pepperiness of rye sourdough on the nose, blended with fresh Red Delicious apples and strawberry compote. It is “creamy, mellow and juicy,” finishing with a bright citrus freshness that Anne suggests will eventually evolve into a “truffled richness.”
- Non-Vintage Brut — 92 points
- Leander Pink NV — 89 points
Why These Reviews Matter
Anne Krebiehl MW is respected for a clarity of thought that mirrors the wines she critiques. As a Master of Wine with a deep affinity for the nuance of Northern Europe’s great regions, her palate is attuned to detail, context, and balance.
Her writing famously resists the “hype” of the moment in favour of careful, measured observation. For a house like Digby, where we prefer to work patiently across seasons rather than chasing immediate acclaim,this type of serious criticism is immensely valuable.
A Reflection of Patience
These scores are the fruit of long-term thinking: the result of our carefully selected portfolio of long-term vineyard partners, restrained winemaking, and the luxury of extended ageing. We believe that true quality cannot be rushed; it must be coaxed out through blending choices made with patience rather than urgency.
We are grateful to Anne for the time and intellectual energy she brought to these wines. Her work continues to elevate the global conversation surrounding English sparkling wine—a conversation we are proud to help lead.
To courage & curiosity.
