Over the coming months, we're excited to showcase some of the best wine and spirit producers in Britain.
Our journey begins in Essex’s Crouch Valley, which is only an hour’s train ride from London. With its favourable climate, it has quietly become a notable hub for wine production. Winemakers here have embraced their passion, cultivating vineyards that yield great wines. There has been a recent investment from a well-known American brand, and other vineyards that were previously rustic farms, are now investing in the visitor experience.
There are lots of exciting developments taking place in the Crouch Valley making it a must-visit destination for those looking to enjoy a day out in the countryside. Our journey continues to other parts of Essex, and onto Kent and Sussex towards the middle of summer.
Here is our favourite so far:
One of the top producers in the Crouch Valley, the estate recently invested in a brand-new winery, equipped with cutting-edge technology.
With 120 acres of vineyards, the estate has 18 grape varieties, and a history that boasts being one of the oldest vines in England,
We held a blind tasting of 8 of their wines courtesy of our friends Tee Video, at Elphinstone Tower in East Lothian, Scotland. The Classic Cuvée Brut, and Rosé Brut NV emerged as clear favourites being rated 9 out of 10 by some seasoned wine drinkers. The "big reveal" at the end of the tasting left everyone surprised, as no one expected these outstanding wines to hail from a single English wine estate.
For some tasters, it was their first encounter with English wine, proving that New Hall's wines can compete on a global stage.
New Hall Wine Estate wines can be purchased at the cellar door or on their website:
https://www.newhallwines.com/
A hidden gem in Halstead, Essex. The well-manicured lawns and topiary gardens show the care and attention poured into this place.
Run by Jane and Peter Moore, Toppesfield Vineyard produces 10,000 bottles of high-quality Bacchus, Pinot Noir Precoce Rosé, and traditional method sparkling wines.
Since their first vintage in 2016, their wines have won gold, silver and bronze in the Great Britain Wines awards. Our favourite is the dry, refreshing Bacchus Reserve, one of the best Bacchus wines we've tasted so far.
Also on offer is a well equipped luxury open-plan villa, al-fresco hot tub and tennis court overlooking the vineyard. Accommodating up to four people for overnight stays, it’s perfect for a relaxing getaway. The extensive grounds are ideal for corporate days and film shoots, providing a beautiful and versatile setting.
Toppesfield wines can be purchased by appointment at their cellar door, or directly on their website:
Join our email newsletter and magazine to follow this exciting journey, our journey continues to other parts of Essex, and onto Kent and Sussex towards the middle of summer.
Images courtesy of our team, New Hall Wines, Elphinstone Tower & Toppesfield Vineyard
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