A sparkling wine maker has won a series of awards on its first entry on the international stage.

Everflyht wines was presented with three silver medals at separate competitions for its Brut NV, a mixture of chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier grapes.

The sparkling wine was commended by judges for its taste, scent and mouth feel in a field of international contenders.

Speaking about the success of the Ditchling-based vineyard, founder Ben Ellis said: "We are absolutely thrilled to come straight out the starting blocks and receive three silver medals for our Brut NV in our first international competitions.

"These awards are a testament to the hard work and passion of our entire team, whose goal is to strive to produce exceptional English sparkling wines. To achieve these medals for our first ever wine is something we are immensely proud of.”

The Everflyht Brut NV won silver medals at the International Wine and Spirit Competition, the International Wine Challenge and the Wine GB Awards.

Judges at the Wine and Spirit Competition said the wine was an “excellent example of focused nose and broad palate”.

The wine was also complimented for its “very lively mousse” and described as “elegant and zesty with a flavoury finish”.