Artelium: When Sussex Meets Vagabond

Some collaborations just make sense. Bowie and Queen. Chips and curry sauce. Vagabond and English sparkling wine.

That’s why we teamed up with Artelium, one of the UK’s most exciting new estates, to create a sparkling wine that doesn’t just show off Sussex terroir, but puts our own twist on it. The result? The Nature Cuvée Series — a partnership that has already turned heads, not least when the 2018 vintage bagged Gold at the IWSC 2025, scoring a cool 95 points.

So, who are Artelium?

Artelium is a modern English wine estate rooted in the South Downs, Sussex. They’ve built their reputation on patience, precision and partnerships — working with some of the UK’s most respected winemakers and artists to craft wines that speak of place and creativity. The name itself blends art and terroir — which tells you everything you need to know about their approach.

Their philosophy is simple: combine world-class vineyard sites, a meticulous eye for detail, and a collaborative spirit that brings together growers, makers and even visual artists. It’s wine as a craft, not a commodity.

Why Vagabond x Artelium?

At Vagabond, we’ve always believed English wine deserves to stand shoulder to shoulder with Champagne, Cava and beyond. Artelium share that vision. So we put our heads (and glasses) together, tasted through their best lots, and worked hand-in-hand to blend something unique for our guests: a sparkling wine that’s fresh, complex, and distinctly English.

It’s made in the traditional method, with 50% Pinot Noir, 33% Chardonnay, 17% Pinot Meunier. Long lees ageing brings depth and richness, while the fruit character sings of Sussex orchards and hedgerows.

Tasting notes

The 2018 Nature Cuvée opens with aromas of russet apples and cobnuts. On the palate, vibrant bubbles carry ripe pear, hazelnut and a whisper of hedgerow. The weighty mouthfeel eases into a mineral finish that lingers long after the last sip. It’s elegant, layered, and proof that England can more than hold its own on the global stage.

More than just wine

The collaboration goes deeper than what’s in the glass. Each bottle is dressed in one of three labels designed by artist Sherrie-Leigh Jones, representing the sun, soil and water that make wine possible. It’s a reminder that winemaking is as much about creativity and imagination as it is about farming and fermentation.

Why we love it

Because this is what Vagabond is all about: discovery, adventure, and celebrating the best of what’s right on our doorstep. English sparkling wine is no longer a curiosity — it’s a category to take seriously. And when you’ve got estates like Artelium pushing quality ever higher, the only way is up.

So next time you’re looking for something to celebrate (or even just something to elevate a Tuesday night), grab a bottle of the Vagabond x Artelium Nature Cuvée. You’ll be drinking not just a collaboration between two winemaking teams, but a snapshot of Sussex terroir, bottled for your glass.