Award-winning vineyards in Britain? Wine production is more readily associated with the sun-baked warmth of southern France than the sodden fields of the UK. But aside from big name grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir, our home-grown wineries are increasing in number and standing, so that their vintage is more… erm, vintage than ever before. Sample them for yourselves and visit one of these outstanding British vineyards in 2014.
Camel Valley, Cornwall
Famed as Cornwall’s biggest and most celebrated vineyard, Camel Valley is a well-established spot that has been producing world-class wines since 1989. Take a guided tour with one of their experts for £7.50 per person between April and October, or spoil yourselves with the deluxe grand tour and tasting package (£12 per person), which culminates in a fun group wine tasting session.
Ryedale Vineyards, Yorkshire
As if being Britain’s northernmost commercial vineyard wasn’t accomplishment enough, Ryedale Vineyards have won awards for their wines every year since they were first produced. The two sites, inaugurated in 2006 and 2008, are situated along South-facing slopes at the foot of the Yorkshire Wolds. Boozy events run between May between September, with scheduled tours and tastings priced from only £8 per person.
Glyndwr Vineyard, Wales
Hidden away in the picturesque Vale of Glamorgan, the family-run Glyndwr Vineyard is proud to be recognised as Wales’ finest and oldest. This friendly spot offers comprehensive guided tours with wine and welsh cheese tasting sessions, home-cooked meals, and a surprise appearance by the resident llamas, for £25-£35 per person.
Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard, Sussex
Local organic and biodynamic wines are the name of the game at Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard, who have been producing for more than 25 years. Their wines have won several awards at the English Wine Festival and UKVA Wine of the Year Competition, including ‘Best Dry White’ (2004) and ‘Highly Commended’ (2008) for their Regent Red. Guided tours start from £9 per person (depending on group size) and conclude with a lavish tasting experience of wines and liqueurs in the ‘Bar-in-the-Barn’.
Chapel Down, Kent
No one does British wines quite like Chapel Down, whose home at Tenterden produces dozens of world-class wines that have been awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals at international competitions. Learn the secrets of their success on one of their expert guided tours (£10 adults; £9 concessions), and you’ll have the opportunity to sample a few of these award-winning wines yourself.
Featured image by Luca Francesco Giovanni Bertolli/iStock/Thinkstock
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to… whose guides cover all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs, sights, shops and spas.
