Simpsons Gravel Castle Chardonnay 2024: Citrus-Driven Elegance
White 12.5% ABV ABV Simpsons
27 February 2026
Great with seafood
The guy at the wine shop recommended this to go with a prawn linguine I was making. He was right — that zingy lemon zest flavour cuts right through anything rich. It's quite lean and sharp so probably not one if you prefer softer, rounder whites.
17 February 2026
Not what I expected
I usually go for bigger Chardonnays so this was a bit of a surprise — very light and steely, almost like a Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity was a lot for me. My wife loved it though and said the nectarine on the finish was lovely, so maybe it's just not my style.
3 February 2026
Fine but not amazing
Bit pricey for what it is if I'm honest. It's pleasant enough — citrusy, light, easy to drink — but I've had similar French whites for less. The salty finish was interesting though, I'll give it that.
19 January 2026
Solid English Chardonnay
Nice to see English wine getting better every year. This is crisp and clean with a mineral edge that reminds me more of Chablis than your typical Chardonnay. Not the most complex wine I've ever had but at under £20 it's good value for what you get.
17 December 2025
One of my favourite English whites
I'm a big fan of Simpsons and this Gravel Castle doesn't disappoint. The flinty, almost chalky quality is so distinctive — you can really taste the terroir coming through. That saline finish keeps you going back for more. Bought three bottles.
17 December 2025
Birthday treat that delivered
My partner got me this for my birthday after reading about it somewhere. The passionfruit on the nose is gorgeous and it's got this lovely clean finish with a hint of peach. At 12.5% you can have a couple of glasses without writing off the evening too!
6 November 2025
Decent midweek wine
Saw this on a menu at a restaurant and liked it enough to track down a bottle for home. It's crisp and refreshing, nothing too complicated. The elderflower note is nice. Good everyday Chardonnay if you don't want anything oaky or heavy.
29 October 2025
Really lovely summer white
Picked this up from our local wine shop on a whim and so glad I did. The lemony citrus thing is spot on — really zesty and refreshing. Had it with some grilled fish on a warm evening and it was perfect. Will definitely be buying more of this.