Toast award-winning Sussex wine
With its dry and sunny climate and chalky soil, West Sussex closely mirrors the temperature and terrain of France’s famous champagne region. Boasting over 140 vineyards, Sussex has a growing reputation for producing distinctive sparkling wines. In anticipation of English Wine week, here are some of our area’s award-winning vineyards and wineries.
Ambriel Sparkling
A banker and barrister walk into a bar, and before long a winemaking dynasty is born. With a wit as sparkling as their wine, this dynamic duo pride themselves on their 100% local processes from vine to sparkling wine.
Top Tip – Private tours and tastings can be tailored to your requirements for groups of all sizes.
Ashling Park Estate
Best known for its sparkling wines and luxury accommodation, visitors also rate the vineyard’s knowledgeable staff and value for money.
Top Tip – book a Thursday night stay and enjoy a free tour and tasting experience for two.
Blackdown Ridge
Perched 440 feet above sea level, at the highest peak of West Sussex, Blackdown Ridge is passionate about innovating English wine making. With views that once inspired Tennyson, the two-hour tours are available all year round for groups of 5-20.
Top Tip – The vineyard tour ends with breathtaking views of the South Downs National Park
Kinsbrook Vineyard
Operated by two of the UK’s youngest vineyard owners, Kinsbrook hosts a hive of activities in addition to their award-winning wines. Masterclasses, workshops and monthly supper clubs are just a few reasons to plan a visit.
Top Tip – The Kinsbrook Farm Shop promotes local producers is worth a visit for its excellent coffee alone!
Nutbourne Vineyards
A family affair from farm to shop – the Gladwins proudly oversee every aspect of growing, tending, harvesting, bottling and selling their Nutbourne wines.
Top Tip – Try their free self-directed tour to explore special spots throughout the vineyard and learn about the vineyard’s modern approach to sustainability.
Nyetimber Wines
These world-renowned English Sparkling Wine producers use traditional wine making methods, combining art and science to deliver award-winning vintages.
Top Tip – If you can’t get to Nyetimber for a tour, keep an eye out for the iconic Nyetimber 1968 Routemaster bus which tours premium events throughout the summer including Epsom Derby and Henley Royal Regatta.
Roebuck Estates
Since debuting its vintage wines in 2019, Roebuck has quickly amassed an accomplished collection of awards and trophies. Using only hand-harvested, estate-grown grapes, Petworth-based Roebuck is a founding member of the Sustainable Wines of Great Britain certification scheme.
Top Tip – Enjoy a refreshing sundowner on Friday evenings from May through mid-September. Wines by the glass or bottle are on offer with accompanying wood fired pizzas.
Stopham Vineyard
Precision and passion fuel the production at this Pulborough based award-winning vineyard. They utilise the latest wine making technology to bring out the best in their locally grown grapes.
Top Tip – When visiting the vineyard be sure to view Stopham Bridge, the Grade I listed bridge, originally built around 1347 in timber, then in stone since 1422.
Tinwood Estate
Once a lettuce farm, estate owner, Art, converted the land to a thriving vineyard producing award-winning sparkling wines. In addition to their wines they have eight luxury (dog friendly!) lodges featuring jacuzzi baths and barrel saunas.
Top Tip – You can dance amongst the vines at their annual Summer Party in June, including live music, food and of course a selection of wines but act quick – tickets sell out as early as February!
Upperton Vineyards
Originating from 800 trial vines in 2005, Upperton grew to an impressive 32,000 vines until 2015 when owner Andy took semi-retirement. It currently produces an impressive 6,000-10,000 bottles annually from the picturesque farm in Tillington.
Top Tip – Upperton owner Andy runs the wine tours, sharing his insights on grape growing, winemaking and the ethos of this Sussex vineyard.
Wiston Estate
With winemaking roots as far back as 1743, this family owned and operated vineyard is passionate about people, nature and enterprise, encouraging all to thrive on the expansive estate.
Top Tip – Springtime visitors will be treated to a beautiful bluebell wood on the estate.
By Jennifer Cordero
Inspired to discover more about Sussex Wine? Have you discovered the Great Sussex Wine Cycle route?