Once the subject of ridicule in the world of winemaking, English wine has undergone a remarkable transformation, now standing proudly among the finest globally. Vineyards have proliferated across the country, with two regions particularly distinguishing themselves. When it comes to excellence, the vineyards of East Sussex and Kent reign supreme.
With over 100 vineyards scattered throughout the rolling countryside of these two counties, selecting which to visit can be a daunting task. Fortunately, we’ve taken on the challenge for you (sampling all that wine was no small feat!) and have curated a list of the top eight vineyards in East Sussex and Kent.
When planning your holidays in East Sussex and Kent, be sure to include a visit to at least one vineyard on your itinerary.
Did you know? One of the best ways to see vineyards in the area is to stay locally. Check out our selection of simply gorgeous East Sussex cottages.
A heads-up on Kent and Sussex wines
Both counties boast ideal conditions for winemaking, particularly excelling in sparkling varieties. The limestone chalk soil closely resembles the terroir of Champagne. When combined with the cool English summers, which are conducive to preserving acidity, the result is exceptional sparkling wines.
Grapes grown in Sussex vineyards
Vineyards in Sussex typically favour Bacchus, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes. Sussex wines are characterised by robust mineral undertones, with distinct notes of chalk and flint on the palate.
Grapes grown in Kent vineyards
Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Bacchus are predominant in Kentish vineyards, with the addition of Ortega. Kent wines share similarities with those from neighbouring Sussex, featuring prominent mineral qualities. However, on the palate, the flavours of the Garden of England shine through, with apples and pears taking centre stage.
Did you know? Vines have been on English soil since Roman times and enjoyed a long heyday until the times of Henry VIII. It wasn’t until the 1960s that the English returned their attention to growing grapes.
Best vineyard in East Sussex for flowers and wine
Bluebell Vineyard
Perched amidst the sprawling vineyards of Bluebell Vineyard estate, it’s hard to believe that this nearly 100-acre expanse was once home to thousands of pigs. While the vineyard has undergone a dramatic transformation, the surrounding woods still provide a spectacular display of bluebells in the spring. Bluebell Vineyard specialises in sparkling wines, alongside refreshing whites and a rosé with a distinctive gooseberry bouquet, all of which are vegan-friendly.
Best vineyard in Sussex and Kent for organic wines
Oxney Organic
Situated on the border between the two counties near Beckley, Oxney Organic lays claim to being the largest organic vineyard in the UK. With a focus on sustainability, Oxney produces a variety of sparkling wines, including two rosés, as well as Chardonnay white and a Pinot Noir Rosé.
Best vineyards in Kent for English sparkling wine
Gusbourne Wines
Located just a short drive away, less then 15 minutes from our cottages, Gusbourne Wines is renowned for producing exceptional English fizz using the traditional Champagne method. Their blanc de blanc has garnered praise from across the globe, with its crisp mineral notes leaving a lasting impression. In fact, the head sommelier of Herons in North Carolina was quoted in Wine Spectator saying “their blanc de blanc has a crisp and clear mineral streak that will make you happy you skipped the orange juice”.
Gusbourne is the only three-time winner of the IWSC English Wine Producer of the Year. The vineyard is renowned locally for its food and wine events. You could line-up your stay here in Camber Sands with one of those and we’ll help you source the cab home!
Chapel Down
Chapel Down, nestled in Tenterden, is celebrated for crafting some of the finest bubbles in the country. Wine expert Henry Jeffreys extols the virtues of their Kit’s Coty Blanc de Blancs, a Chardonnay-based delight with tantalising notes of lemons and green apples. Additionally, Chapel Down offers a diverse range of beverages, including gin, vodka and cider.
Did you know? The esteemed French Champagne house Taittinger has established a vineyard near Chilham in Kent, with plans to produce up to 400,000 bottles of sparkling wine annually.
Best vineyard in East Sussex for natural surroundings
Rathfinny Estate
Nestled within the picturesque South Downs, Rathfinny Estate boasts 226 acres of stunning vineyards that meander along the Cradle Valley. Despite its relative youth, the vineyard evokes the charm of Beaujolais country. Rathfinny Estate aims to establish Sussex wines as synonymous with Champagne, offering a selection of sparkling and still wines, as well as gin.
Best vineyard in East Sussex for awards
Ridgeview Wine Estate
A trailblazer in the industry, Ridgeview has been crafting wine on the outskirts of the South Downs for over 25 years. Specialising in sparkling wine, Ridgeview cultivates Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes across its picturesque landscape, earning numerous accolades for its exceptional bubbles. These include Best International Winemaker and two World’s Best Bottle awards for its Blanc de Blanc.
Best vineyard in East Sussex for diversification
Tillingham
Planted with vines in 2017, Tillingham represents one of the newest additions to the East Sussex vineyard scene in recent years. Embracing sustainable viticulture and biodynamic practices, Tillingham produces a range of wines with a focus on environmental stewardship. 2020 saw the first vintage produced from their own vines – all previous bottles had been pressed from bought-in grapes while their own vines grew.
Best vineyard in East Sussex tied to wine history
Charles Palmer Vineyards
Located in Winchelsea, Charles Palmer Vineyards benefits from soil reminiscent of Burgundy’s terroir. Renowned for their sparkling wines, including the award-winning 2014 blanc de blanc, Charles Palmer Vineyards offers visitors a glimpse into winemaking history during their informal tastings.
Did you know? Winchelsea has a rich wine-related heritage, once playing a pivotal role in the importation of wines from France. Visitors can explore the historic cellars where these wines were stored during their time in the town.
Wine tastings holidays in East Sussex
Enhance your stay in one of our charming seaside cottages by exploring the wealth of vineyards and coastline that East Sussex has to offer. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable experience, a wine-tasting holiday in East Sussex promises to leave a lasting impression.
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