Thanks to its favourable climate, chalky soil, and world class winemakers, Sussex is often touted as the wine capital of the UK.
As well as producing some of the finest bottles in the land, many of the vineyards offer tasting tours, dining options, and event hosting facilities.
Read on to discover five of the best vineyards in East Sussex.
1. Ridgeview Wine Estate
Ridgeview Wine Estate is a family-owned vineyard and is one of the pioneers in English sparkling wine. They have crafted award-winning bottles from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes since 1995.
Ridgeview combines tradition with innovation, and has a strong commitment to sustainability, holding B Corp certification.
Open all year, the estate invites guests to enjoy laid-back tours, guided tastings, seasonal events, and exceptional dining at Rows & Vine, its vineyard-view restaurant offering local and seasonal produce.
You can find Ridgeview Wine Estate on Fragbarrow Lane, Ditchling.
2. Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard
Founded in 1979, Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard holds the distinction of being England’s oldest organic wine estate.
Set across 22 acres, the vineyard prioritises soil health and vine care and embraces sustainability in every aspect of their operation.
They produce an award-winning selection of white, rosé, red, and sparkling wines, all of which are certified organic or biodynamic and are suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.
Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours, wine flights, cheese and wine pairings, as well as a range of refreshments including hot and cold drinks, charcuterie, cheeseboards, and homemade cakes. Tours take place every Friday and Saturday during the autumn and winter seasons.
You can find Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard on Hawkhurst Road, Sedlescombe.
3. Hidden Spring Vineyard
Situated on a 23-acre small holding, Hidden Spring Vineyard was first established in 1986.
After a period operating as a campsite, the vineyard underwent significant expansion in 2015, planting over 24,000 vines of five different grape varieties across 13 acres.
Hidden Spring make both still and sparkling wines from hand-picked grapes. Visitors can sample these wines in the on-site tasting room, explore the wine bar and shop, or take part in the Tour & Tasting Experience. This tour displays their full winemaking process from vine to bottle, finishing with a guided tasting led by the head winemaker.
You can find Hidden Spring Vineyard on Vines Cross Road, Horam.
4. Court Gardens Farm
Set in the South Downs, Court Gardens Farm is a family-run estate that combines traditional farming with winemaking. Since launching their sparkling wine in 2005, they have expanded to now also create still bottles.
Their grapes are grown on a picturesque south-facing slope, where the soil closely mirrors that of the Champagne region of France, allowing them to cultivate a variety of grapes using traditional methods.
Visitors can choose from two guided tours, a self-guided option, or a tasting-only experience. Additionally, Court Gardens now offers a picnic lunch, perfect to enjoy after a morning tour, before an afternoon visit, or even during a self-guided exploration.
You can find Court Gardens Farm on Orchard Lane, Ditchling.
5. Wildwood Vineyard
Wildwood Vineyard is a family-owned, boutique English vineyard in East Sussex that has earned multiple awards for its exceptional wines.
Established in 2016, with its first harvest in 2018, Wildwood operates completely off-grid and uses a variety of sustainable practices to nurture Bacchus, Pinot Noir, and Regent grapes.
Every vine is carefully tended by hand, resulting in still and sparkling wines that show the very best of English winemaking.
Visitors are able to take part in guided tours and tastings, complete with a delicious East Sussex cheese platter paired with their wines.
The vineyard also offers a Cellar Door for direct purchases, a Nature Trail for children, and peaceful walks through the surrounding wild woods. For a truly memorable arrival, guests can even travel by steam train on the nearby Spa Valley Railway.
You can find Wildwood Vineyard on Eridge Road, Rotherfield.
Get in touch
Our team of independent financial advisers in Lewes is here to support you in achieving your long-term goals while ensuring you can enjoy life along the way.
To find out more, please get in touch by emailing us at financial@barwells-wealth.co.uk or by phone on 01273 086 311.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.
Production