Napa Valley and Champagne might be the first places that spring to mind when you think of wineries, but Britain is becoming increasingly recognised as a premium wine-producing region. Here are some fantastic vineyards to visit on our very own shores…
BUSI JACOBSOHN WINE ESTATE, SUSSEX
With five hectares planted to Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, Busi Jacobsohn is a beautiful family owned estate in High Weald, East Sussex, an Area of Outstanding Beauty. Founded in 2015 by husband and wife team Susannah and Douglas, the estate produces top quality English sparkling wines. Open days for wine tastings and a vineyard walk are available in during summer. Bespoke tasting experiences can also be booked here. You can also buy bottles online. busijaconsohn.com
ALDER RIDGE VINEYARD, BERKSHIRE
Sitting on the borders of West Berkshire between Hungerford and Marlborough, Alder Ridge Vineyard is nestled into the chalky slopes of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The Southerly facing land and chalky terroir have made it the ideal location to establish grape varieties specific to the production of sparkling wine. They have seven acres of high-graft Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Précoce grapes. The vineyard’s 2013 Blanc de Noirs became world championship-winning, and the team continue to enhance and develop the range of wines they produce.
alderridge.co.uk
TERLINGHAM VINEYARD, KENT
This is a boutique, family run vineyard in the beautiful Kent North Downs, with south facing slopes, chalky soil and gentle sea breezes thanks to its close proximity to the Channel. Accredited by Sustainable Wines of Great Britain, no artificial pesticide or herbicides are used in the vineyard and the wines are made in a traditional, low intervention way. Here, you can enjoy a wine tasting experience comprising a walk around the vineyard, a cheeseboard selection plus tea, coffee and cake. And if you want to stay even longer you can book Terlingham Lane Cottage, a sweet self-catering lodge, allowing you to soak up some more of the local area.
terlinghamvineyard.co.uk
WRAXALL VINEYARD, SOMERSET
Wraxall Vineyard is one of Somerset’s oldest and largest vineyards. Located on a south facing slope with stunning views, the vines enjoy the sun and the warmth of the South West. Come and taste the wines, spend some time relaxing in the Somerset countryside and understand what the dedicated team do to care and nurture the vineyard. See the website to book a tour and tasting - you could treat yourself
