If you know of Highclere Castle, then it’ll probably be the dramatic tales of Downton Abbey coming to mind, with aristocratic grandeur a plenty. However, this stunning estate, nestled in Hampshire, has now added a new chapter to its story – a fully operational vineyard.
And one that in October 2023, harvested it’s first batch of grapes from across the 2.5 acres. Owners Lord and Lady Carnarvon embarked on this winemaking venture in 2018 after discovering that the estate's "old wall garden" offered the perfect chalky soil for grape cultivation.
The two grape varieties planted were Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. While the Chardonnay faced a bit of a challenge due to heavy summer rains, Pinot Noir grapes emerged beautifully, and the family are looking to get bubbly, producing a sparkling rosé under the name, ‘Chateau Highclere’, which they hope to make thousands of bottles of.
This isn’t actually Highclere’s first foray into the drink’s world, because their wines, once ready, will sit alongside their Castle Gin in the shop. This gin has picked up a lot of praise, known for infusing botanicals grown on the estate, including vibrant oranges from the Victorian Orangery.
For more information about the Highclere Castle Gin, go here. And if you were already a fan of Downton Abbey and have been meaning to pay a visit to the real life Grantham’s, then you’ve not got even more of a reason!