ENGLISH WINE
English Wine Week now draws to a close, and while we celebrate our local grape all year round, we have put together our favourite local vineyards, wine news and events happening at the moment.
From pizza nights under the stars, to special tasting dinners, a new wine trail and a brand new wine launch, there is never a better time to enjoy English Wine in The Weald.
So grab yourself a willing designated driver and head to these wonderful spots.
DOWNSVIEW
HADLOW DOWN ROAD
Nestled in the heart of the Weald of Sussex and Kent countryside, Downsview is a family-run vineyard and winery run by husband and wife Toby and Katy, that collaborates with local producers and chefs to create a unique destination for foodies and wine lovers alike.
A new summer dining programme in collaboration with local chef, Aaron Fitzgerald features regular supper clubs held among the vines, featuring seasonal produce and beautiful wines from the vineyard and across the world to match.
For a more casual evening, Downsview is open every Friday evening for pizza cooked al fresco from the vineyard’s pizza oven and served with a selection of home-produced wines and ciders, with locally brewed beer. If you’re just looking to drop in and try some wine, then the charcuterie boards and tasting flights are a must!
TIDEBROOK WINES / MOUSEHALL ESTATE
TIDEBROOK
Mousehall is a family-run, sustainable Distillery & Winery tucked into the countryside between Mayfield & Wadhurst in East Sussex. Founded by Gary and Kathy Jordan, owners of Jordan Wine Estate in South Africa, this neglected and over-grown property has been brought to life with the help of daughter Christy. Having successfully launched a award winning gin and vodka, the family are ready now with their first wine.
Launching just in time for English Wine Week, Tidebrook Wine’s first collection features a 2022 maiden vintage still Rose, Chardonnay & Pinot Noir. Organise a vineyard tour, a tasting, or simply book to stay in the Mousehall Oasthouse to experience living on a working vineyard.
BUSI JACOBSOHN
Eridge
A single estate grower-producer with many awards under its belt, the sparkling wines of Busi Jacobsohn are just as at home gracing the wine list of a Michelin-Starred restaurant in London, than a local wine shop.
To experience the wines in their natural habitat at the Busi Jacobsohn vineyard is a treat. The vineyard’s first Open Day date for the year has just been announced for the 14th July. Book tickets by visiting the website or through eventbrite.
OASTBROOK
Bodiam
America and Nick Brewer, the founders of Oastbrook have transformed their superb vineyard into a travel and events destination, as well as a cellar door and winery. Situated on the Kent / Sussex border near Bodiam Castle, with still and sparkling wines now made on site, Oastbrook also boasts a beautiful oak framed tasting room, which can double up as a glorious events space for private dining, events and weddings. For those looking for a vineyard stay with a difference, Oastbrook’s Vineyard Hollow is a rustic hobbit-style hideaway, burrowed into the landscape, featuring two luxury bedrooms and your very own hot tub. Perfect for sunset bubbles!
www.oastbrook.com
WILDWOOD VINEYARD
ERIDGE
Wildwood Vineyard is a small, family-owned vineyard just outside Eridge. In the summer, Wildwood wines are available to buy direct at the vineyard from the Cellar Door. Offering tours and guided tastings at the weekends, Wildwood Vineyard is the perfect Sussex day out, with access from the nearby Spa Valley steam railway and a children's nature trail to keep the kids occupied while you enjoy a glass of wine!
www.wildwoodvineyard.co.uk
WEALDEN WINE TRAIL
We were excited to hear about a new initiative run by Wealden District Council to celebrate the wonderful vineyards we have in the Weald. 12 local vineyards have joined together to unveil a new Wealden Wine Trail, designed to offer visitors to Sussex the very best this area has to offer: wine tastings and picnics, vineyward tours, nature trails and special events.
The project aims to improve pride in place, invest in communities and support local businesses and we are very excited that these award winning Wealden vineyards will be put on the map. Those vineyards taking part include Tickerage Winery in Blackboys near Uckfield, Hidden Spring Vineyard in Horam, Beacon Down Vineyard near Heathfield, and the historic Mousehall Estate - between Wadhurst and Mayfield.
The Bluebell Vineyard Estate, Downsview Vineyard and its accompanying Vermouthery by In the Loop Drinks, are involved as well as Rathfinny Wine Estate in Alfriston, which is is hosting a series of gourmet experiences, a pop-up seafood kitchen and summer Sunday lunches. Wildwood Vineyard and Off The Line vineyard, offer tours next to the Spa Valley, while Henners Vineyard, close to the Pevensey Marshes, enjoys spectacular views to the sea. The Secret Vineyard in Herstmonceux has launched a ‘Wellbeing in the Wild’ initiative, while Coes Farm near Rotherfield offers romantic glamping in shepherd huts, an orangery or a thatched granary.