On February 6, 2022 Queen Elizabeth II completed 70 years of her ascension to the throne. With this she became Britain’s longest-running monarch. In June this year, the entire country will ring in the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in a massive celebration spanning over four days.
One particularly special treat for the Queen’s well-wishers is her own special wine label! The Buckingham Palace Sparkling Wine has been produced by the Royal Collection Trust (RCT) which is a charitable department of the Royal Household. This unique wine label has a design which is based on the embroidery on the Queen’s Robe of Estate from her coronation. The Queen’s cypher – Elizabeth II Regina (EIIR) is also surrounded by golden olive leaves and ears of wheat which symbolize peace and plenty.
The wine is a blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay grapes that have been cultivated in Kent and West Sussex. As mentioned on the Royal Collection Shop website, the wine is golden in appearance with “enticing aromas of rich and honeyed citrus fruit, white peach and hints of sweet spice.” Ripe orchard fruit, preserved lemon and toasted nuts combine on the palate, ending with “a soft, round and silky finish.” It is said to pair well with fish and chips, British seafood and naturally, mature English cheddar.
The wine retails for £39 ($53) in the Royal Collection Online Shop. One can also purchase a pair of British cut glass champagne flutes along with the wine.
There is another royal connection with sparkling wine which is not limited to the Platinum Jubilee celebrations. The British wine retailer Laithwaite’s has been cultivating vines on royal land near Windsor Castle and retailing it since 2011.
But wait! The wine isn’t the only item on the royal menu of alcohol. One can explore a pair of gins. One gin is made with ingredients from the gardens of Buckingham Palace and the other is produced from the gardens of Sandringham Estate, the Queen’s home in Norfolk. To add to the fun, there are also IPAs and bitter beer which are produced in Sandringham Estate.
This makes sure that this is not just a celebration for the Queen, but for everyone who would like to commemorate the Queen’s special milestone!
