The Trouble With Dreams 2022 is the flagship sparkling wine from Sugrue South Downs, and a brilliant expression of what English sparkling wine can be. Made by Dermot and Ana Sugrue from vineyards rooted in the chalk of Sussex and Hampshire, this is a wine built around freshness, texture and a real sense of place. The 2022 vintage was an exceptional growing season in England, producing fruit with unusual ripeness and concentration while retaining the natural acidity and energy of the South Downs.

A blend of 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir, the wine brings together fruit from Mount Harry Vineyard in East Sussex, Storrington Priory and Coldharbour Vineyard in West Sussex, alongside Jenkyn Place in Hampshire. Around 40% of the wine was fermented in 600L and 228L ex-Burgundy barrels, with the remainder fermented in stainless steel. The wine underwent no malolactic fermentation, helping preserve its remarkable freshness and precision.

Bottled in July 2023 and aged for 32 months on its lees, The Trouble With Dreams 2022 was first disgorged in March 2026 with a restrained dosage of just 6g/L. The result is a sparkling wine that combines the richness of the warm 2022 vintage with the chalky, saline character and electric acidity that have become signatures of Sugrue.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Open and expressive, with confit lemon, white peach and ripe orchard fruit alongside salted pastry, oyster shell and delicate brioche. There is a subtle savoury character beneath the fruit, with hints of fresh herbs and fine spice adding complexity.

Palate: Rich and beautifully textured, with ripe citrus and white fruit balanced by vibrant, chalky acidity. Creamy lees character gives the wine weight and depth, while a pronounced saline streak keeps everything fresh and precise. The warmth of the 2022 vintage brings impressive concentration without sacrificing energy.

Finish: Long, mineral and distinctly saline, with lemon, pastry and orchard fruit lingering alongside fine bubbles and refreshing acidity. Fresh, savoury and remarkably persistent.

The Trouble With Dreams is a wine that rewards time in the glass. As it opens, the lees-derived richness and savoury complexity become increasingly pronounced, revealing more of the depth behind its bright, energetic first impression. It is a serious bottle of English sparkling wine, equally at home alongside fine seafood as it is enjoyed on its own.

Producer: Sugrue South Downs
Winemakers: Dermot & Ana Sugrue
Vintage: 2022
Grapes: 60% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir
Region: Sussex & Hampshire, England
Vineyards: Mount Harry, Storrington Priory, Coldharbour & Jenkyn Place
ABV: 12%
Dosage: 6g/L
Lees Ageing: 32 months
Style: Brut English Sparkling Wine

Food Pairing

The freshness and saline character make this a natural partner for oysters, crab, prawns and scallops, while the wine's added richness and texture mean it can comfortably handle more substantial dishes. Try it with beautifully crisp fish and chips, roast chicken, lobster or richer seafood dishes. It is equally enjoyable simply poured into a glass and allowed to develop slowly over an evening.

Where to Buy

Looking to try this bottle in person or collect it locally? Sugrue The Trouble With Dreams 2022 is available from Strong Water Co. at both our shops. Visit us in either shop and our team will be happy to talk you through the wine and help you find the right bottle for you.

ABV STRENGTH 12.0

BOTTLER Sugrue South Downs

BOTTLE SIZE 75cl

COUNTRY England

GRAPE Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier

REGION Sussex

STYLE English Sparkling

VINTAGE 2022