7 Stunning English Vineyards to Visit in 2023

English wine is by no means new. After all, the Romans here were turning vines to wines 2000 years ago, but the buzz around it is. Stand-out English sparkling wine in particular, using chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier is now competing on the global stage.

The handy thing is, the vineyards behind these quality bottles also happen to be nestled in some of the most beautiful, green and glorious countryside in England, so tours and tastings are an absolute pleasure. Suspect British weather aside, these vineyards stand up to anything on the continue for a truly memorable visiting experience.

SUSSEX

Roebuck Estates

Born in 2013, Roebuck Wines set out to make sparkling wine that rivals bottles from the rest of the world and with their shelves now burdened with awards left right, and centre, including a Decanter Platinum just months after opening, they have managed it, becoming a champion of fine English wine in the process. Roebuck are lucky enough to have several top-class vineyards around the market town of Petworth. The home vineyard near Tillington looks over the beautiful South Downs and their Roman Villa vineyard sits in a serene valley, but there is also Little Brockhurst, Waterlands and Hazelhurst, all offering different soils and vines but each as beautiful as the next. There are plenty of experiences and events for those following the winery and, in the sunshine, it truly is a bright and beautiful landscape with some of the best fizz around.

Website

Bolney Wine Estate

Bolney Wine has established a great reputation for wide-ranging wine varietals as well as tourism, offering memorable experiences of one of the oldest English vineyards. Visitors (and their dogs!) can walk the vines and browse the wines of the vineyard shop, dine at the Eighteen Acre Café, or take part in their renowned tour and tastings, be that the Cheese & Wine version (£30), or the Ultimate Wine & Food experience (£60). The natural beauty of Bolney will become immediately apparent as you explore the vine to wine process through the tasting of award-winning creations and expert tutoring.

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Rathfinny Wine Estate

Rathfinny’s enviable location on a south-facing slope in the South Downs is part of the reason they have become such a leading light for Sussex bubbles, and the historic Flint Barns there make for a magical trip. Whether cosied up by the wood burner inside or soaking up the sun below expansive Sussex skies, Rathfinny is a dreamy place to tour around and even better, there’s a gastropub on site and you can also stay at the award-winning bed & breakfast. If for some reason you want to get away from all that, the coast is only three miles away!

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CORNWALL

Camel Valley

The Camel Valley made a few headlines by becoming the first UK vineyard to be awarded a Protected Designation Origin (PDO) from the European Union for its Darnibole vineyard. Built up by a husband-and-wife duo in the late 1980s, their son has since taken Camel Valley even further winning award after award for their efforts. Stunning red, white and sparkling can all be enjoyed but their Cornwall Brut is their most famous blend, and a number of different tours and tastings are available from ‘Daily Guided’ experiences in the morning to the Grand Tour in the evening. You’ll finish with a glass of the good stuff on the terrace overlooking the river, what more could you want?

Website

HAMPSHIRE

Hattingley Valley Wines

Rural Hampshire is home to one of the most awarded wineries in the country, producing elegant and sophisticated wines, and in particular flagship sparkling wine, since 2013. Winery Tour and Tastings can be booked from their site, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the work of Head Winemaker Emma Rice, two time winner of UK Winemaker of the Year, as well as the harmonious countryside atmosphere around every blissful corner.

Website

Hambledon

Hambledon in Hampshire is known as the ‘cradle of cricket’, once home to the most powerful club in the country formed in the 1700s, but that’s not all it’s known for. Established in 1952, Hambledon is England’s oldest vineyard. Major-General Sir Guy Salisbury-Jones looked out over his open field and took the plunge to get even closer to his love of wine. The vines quickly flourished on the south-facing chalky slopes, and in the 70s Queen Elizabeth II even served it to President Pompidou (despite French customs doubting English wine even existed!). These days visitors can enjoy a tour of the truly historic vineyards, a tasting of the leading sparkling wine and a bite to eat at the fine pop-up restaurant. A true pioneer of English wine, and the most historically rich vineyard in the country.

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KENT

Simpsons Estate

Tucked away covertly into the North Downs slopes near Canterbury is the Simpsons Estate, spearheaded by veterans of English wine Charles and Ruth Simpson. From their traditional method sparkling wine using glorious champagne grapes to their sleek dark distinctive packaging, to their more unusual innovations like 100% pinot meunier, Simpsons have certainly made a name for themselves. All-encompassing tastings and tours are offered on most days, but the Friday sunset session is particularly sought after. Truly, Kent’s finest.

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Truth be told though, Kent wine has so much to offer and deserves a guide all of its own. Oh wait, we’ve done just that here!

The Ultimate Mother’s Day Drinks Guide

Mother’s Day is nearly here which you no doubt already knew (most of you anyway ;)) so if you’re wanting to gift some drinks that are a little bit different from the same options every year, look no further.

For whatever drinks Mum likes, we’ve got our briefcase full of options open and ready for your perusal. Wine, gin, whisky, rum, Irish cream... there’s even mead! A glass of these on the big day from you and you’ll earn serious brownie points.

For the wine loving mum

Pasqua - ‘Hey French You Could Have Made This But You Didn’t’

The Pasqua family have been pulling together classic white wines in the Soave area of Venito since the 1920s, but this bottle expresses them best, living up to the bolshy name. Designed by CB Hoyo, the striking label is 100% gift-worthy and as soon as you set eyes on it, you know you’re in for something distinct. Inside is a blend of vintages from 2015 to 2018 and the complexity is remarkable, with light freshness and floral notes pinned down by strong structure. Think fruit-forward peach, mandarin and subtle zest with a rounded comforting finish hinting at nuts and freshly baked bread. Unique and definitely worth gifting this Mother’s Day.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 13.5%
Find here: £32 Harrods

Specially Selected Fleurs D'eau Sparkling Brut Rosé

Aldi’s sparkling range is seriously underrated, and this perky blend is full of fruit with juicy melon and pear on the nose and a delicate and superbly balanced dry palate of strawberries, redcurrants and a little honey. Each sip feels harmonious, and is bound to make Mum’s Day!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £7.99 Aldi

For the gin loving mum

Mirabeau Rosé Gin

One of our favourite gins inside and out, Mirabeau kicks off with the familiar botanical base (juniper-forward, angelica, coriander, orris, citrus) but then comes the showstopper. Local Saint Tropez twists of Provence including rosemary, thyme and bay and of course, their splendid Classic Rosé distillate elevates this to the next level. So, satisfying, glamorous and brimming with fresh fruit and florality. It’s the cheapest way to transport your Mum to the French Riviera this Mother’s Day!

It's a cocktail game-changer too, as we discovered here!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 43%
Find here: £28 Waitrose

Whitley Neill Banana & Guava Gin

This is Banana & Guava gin that’s eye-catching for different reasons. Bringing summer forward, this is a smooth and refreshing gin for Mum’s with a sweet-tooth. The guava is juicy and tropical, the banana is ripe and distinct, but the overall blend carries itself with a sophistication and balance you might not initially expect.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 41.3%
Find here: £26 Tesco

For the whiskey loving mum

The Three Drinkers & Sliabh Liag - The Legendary Red Silkie Irish Whiskey

That’s right, we’ve worked with the wonderful Donegal distillers Sliabh Liag to produce a classic Irish whiskey that leans into our love of good wine. Velvety rich liquid carries plush red fruits from Pomerol barrels in Bordeaux, and it’s all wrapped in very subtle smoke with a little candied orange and caramel. Humble brag, but we think we’ve made something very special (Sliabh Liag did all the hard work of course!). Oh, and £1 from every purchase goes towards the amazing mental health charity My Black Dog!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 46%
Find here: £49.99

For the rum loving mum

Depth Charge Spiced Rum

This is powerful Caribbean rum with oodles of flavour. Lime and mandarin bring fresh and zippy citrus to the core, but baking spices linger on the tongue moreishly too. It’s the opposite of forgettable with great vibrance – cola notes, peppercorn, orange, caramel, vanilla and a citrus streak throughout holding it together. There’s so much to explore neat over ice, but its versatility means it’ll be a hit with your usual rum mixers. A guaranteed hit for a Mum that likes spiced rum that’s for sure.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £23.95

For the Irish Cream loving mum

Coole Swan Cream Liqueur

In a nutshell, this is white chocolate Irish Cream – I know right? Decadent Belgian white choc, single malt whiskey and fresh Irish Cream combine for the pinnacle of decadence. It’s unbelievably velvety with surprising balance given the sweetness. Serve it chilled or as a special Mother’s Day treat drizzle it over cheesecake for a truly indulgent dessert.

Size: 700ml
ABV: 16%
Find here: £26 Tesco (£22 Clubcard Price!)

For the Cocktail loving mum

Vineyards Peach Bellini

If you’re planning a Mother’s Day breakfast in bed offering, then why not start the day with some fizz for that special touch? Sweet peach fizzes in this crisp and refreshing ready to go Bellini. A smile in a glass and lovely way to start the day!

Size: 700ml
ABV: 4%
Find here: £3.15 Tesco

Raspberry Mojito

If you’re short on time, then don’t look down on these super affordable cans of Raspberry Mojito. They’re perfect for a refreshing fruity blend with raspberry and lime tang, but still have that cocktail style to add the extra touch on the big day. You could even be sneaky and pour it into a tall glass – would anyone know?

Size: 250ml
ABV: 5%
Find here: £1.95 Morrisons (Buy 4 for £6)

For the cognac loving mum

H by Hine VSOP Cognac

H is a delicious VSOP Cognac from one of the region’s oldest houses, Hine. A blend of over 10 Grande and Petite Champagne eau-de-vie, this smaller bottle will leave any Cognac loving Mum wanting more – but there’s always her birthday! Apricot, acacia, white pepper and iris can all be picked up when exploring this floral nectar that brings modern craftsmanship to a heritage brand... just as the bottle suggests.

Size: 200ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £20.95

For the mead loving mum

Gosnells Mead Tasting Box

Yes, there are mead loving mums, and they’ll be sure to appreciate the country’s top mead brand, Gosnells. This stylish set includes four different meads using bees from various urban and rural areas, and a booklet guiding you through the process and how the taste is affected. You also get four honey tasting pots as well! If you’re looking for a slightly unique gift, this is it.

Find here: £35 4 x 500ml mead bottles + 4 x 30ml honey pots

For the No-Low loving mum

Belvoir Elderflower & Rose Presse

We love Belvoir for their beautifully packaged and wonderfully crafted range of fizzes and cordials – I mean just look at this. It well and truly has the special feeling that some non-alcoholic drinks can fail on. It’s a Mother’s Day twist on their adored Elderflower Pressé with fresh lemon, freshly picked flowers and rose petal extract for delicate and 100% natural sparkling water. It tastes as delicious as it sounds – if not more and has gift written all over it.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £2.25 (usually more!)

REAL Dry Dragon Sparkling Tea

Another striking bottle, this kombucha uses Dragonwell Green Tea for a fizzy delight that’s kind of similar to Prosecco, but arguably a lot lusher. It’s one of the crispest liquids out there, with no artificial sweetness and a really elegant profile. It also has some health benefits too so it looks amazing, tastes great and it’s good for you!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £8 Waitrose

LA Brewery Rose Infused, Sparkling Kombucha

People are just loving kombucha right now so here’s another lovely bottle. The best of Devon’s white rose petals are infused alongside wild elderflower for a deeply floral and delicately poised dry liquid, that refreshes as much as it tantalises. It’s got fun fizz and just the right touch of acidity to be a great Mother’s Day white wine alternative.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £10

If you’re after more of an experience for Mother’s Day, then consider booking one of the many tasting trains cruising through the glorious British countryside.

What Drinks Go Best With Pancakes?

When Shrove Tuesday rolls around, pancakes are obviously the star of the show. However, finding the right drink to wash them down levels up everything. Don’t get us wrong, coffee, tea, juice and the usuals are fine, but drinks like these are how you celebrate in style.

The variety of toppings can make the accompanying drink a tricky one to decide, but whatever you’re going for this Pancake Day, we’ve got an idea below to perfectly match.

WINE

Fizzy Cocktail

Sparkling wine cocktails are gorgeous alongside pancakes. If you’ve gone for rich and thick toppings like banana then the light bubbles cut through wonderfully, and any fruity flavour will obviously complement.

A glass of orange juice is obviously a safe bet when it comes to washing down pancakes but why not add some bubbles (Cava is great) for an even more refreshing Mimosa?

Or perhaps a beautiful Bellini if you’re using peach?

If you want something with more oomph then our Rosé Bowler with Rosé and strawberries as well as dry white wine and a touch of Cognac would be stunning with any red fruits on your pancakes.

Find some of our delicious bubbly cocktail recipes including the above go here!

Sweet Wines

If your pancakes aren’t too sweet, then a sweet sparkling wine or dessert wine could be the way to go for tonnes of flavour without the sweetness overkill.

Toppings like cinnamon and apple would pair nicely with Sauternes, or even a Tokaji if you can get it. You can generally expect notes of apricot, honey, butterscotch, peaches, toasted baking spices with enough fresh acidity to slice through the pancakes.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 14%
Find here: £14.60

You could also consider a sweeter sparkling wine unless you’re using lemon on your pancakes. Something like this Moscato D’Asti brings a pastries and cream cake profile as well as a thirst-quenching fruity quality.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 5.3%
Find here: £7.49

Rosé

A good sparkling Rosé sits ideally next to any strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries on your pancakes. Anything heavier or stodgier than that and we’d avoid it but for lighter toppings this works wonders.

The mirroring of fruits is subtle enough to enhance but not spoil, so look for a dry, natural tasting elegant Rosé that holds with great fizz. We’ve listed some of our favourites here, but the Mirabeau La Folie Rosé is perfectly dry, refreshing, crisp and versatile too!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £10.99 (Usually £14.99)

Whites

Now, sweet toppings are by far and away the most popular but let’s not forget savoury options.

Rich toppings like cheese and ham pancakes call for a crisp white that’s highly aromatic with good acidity. Think off-dry Riseling, Pinot Blanc or Gavi, but many others would work well!

Mushroom and Spinach is another unusual but not unheard of pancake filling, and those umami flavours are pesky to pair with. Nonetheless, a Gewürztraminer’s slight sweetness and intense aroma would be the perfect foil for the earthy savoury flavours.

For a reliable all-rounder regardless of specific toppings, if you’re serving savoury pancakes we suggest Riesling, such as Definition Mosel.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 10.5%
Find here: £11.99 (£9.99 Mix Six price)

WHISKY

Old Fashioned

Pancakes on the savoury side, especially if there are crispy strips of bacon involved, will go nicely with an Old Fashioned. There’s just something about the ridiculously decadent combination of subtle vanilla, the warmth of bitters, those smoky notes and the bacon that makes this an absolute indulgence – exactly what Pancake Day is about.

You can find the traditional Old Fashioned recipe here, as well as other variations that may strike you as a suitable dance partner for your pancakes – the Maple Old Fashioned is definitely worth a go.

CIDER

There’s a tradition in France to enjoy Crêpes and cider together, particularly with savoury options so if you want to do as the French do then give it a go. Also, if you happen to be making them, Breton-style buckwheat pancakes are a particularly good match for dry ciders.

The sweeter ciders using tropical fruits or berries would probably be too much for whatever topping you have, but any dry pear or apple-fleshy style with an easy-going sweetness and enough acidity will refresh the palate in-between bites.

Size: 500ml
ABV: 6.8%
Find here: £2.40

For more food and drinks pairing advice, check out our guides on Thai food and Indian cuisine too!

The Best Bubbles For Valentine's Day

That’s right, Valentine’s Day is right around the corner so if you’re not quite on track with your preparations (relax there’s still time), then these sparkling wines are a surefire way to make the day special, however you’re spending it.

Whether you’re gifting to your partner, popping fizz for Galentine’s, or just want to treat yourself, we’ve got you covered with 8 bubbly bottles you’re guaranteed to love.

The Best sparkling Rosé for Valentine’s Day

Mirabeau La Folie

If you’ve never taken to rosé before because you’ve found it overly fruity then this is a fantastic place to try again. A classic Provençal pink that’s perfectly dry, crisp and refreshing - but a sparkling version! It goes down very easily and pairs with so many different dishes. It’s a Valentine’s winner at that price.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £10.99 (Usually £14.99)

Langham’s NV Rose

Langham’s sparkling rosé is one of the best England has to offer, with this expression picking up awards at both the IWSC and Decanter Awards. Made with 46% Pinot Noir, 18% Pinot Meunier and 36% Chardonnay, it’s pale and dry with an inviting light nose of wild strawberries and cranberries. These red fruits continue on the palate but with a touch of brioche and a subtle hints of raspberry yoghurt rounding off the profile sumptuously. Nom!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £33.85

Heidseick & Co Champagne Monopole Rosé Top

Wonderfully creamy and soft with red fruits dominating throughout, you’ll find a little citrus and sweeter cantaloupe melon notes in here too. The finish has a touch of tartness in the best, most moreish way too. It would pair perfectly with grilled fish or poultry but also works a treat when sipped alongside desserts like strawberry pavlova.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5%
Find here: £35

Pommery Champagne Brut Royal Rosé

This beautiful rosé champagne is the perfect gift with a stunning gift box and equally special contents. With a large helping of Chardonnay, it’s a very gentle pink with delicate notes of fresh strawberry and peach. Soft, well-rounded and worthy of any celebration.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12.5% 
Find here: £35.99 (usually £46.99)

Perrier-Jouët Blason Rosé

This is a juicy, generous and complex blend with so much to explore. Lifting the liquid are notes of fragrant strawberry, orchard fruit and orange peel citrus, all layered on top of toasted brioche. It’s sharp in the right places and finishes powerfully. The drink of an unforgettable night.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here:  £58.78

The Best sparkling wine for Valentine’s Day

Freixenet Cordon Rouge Negro

This Spanish Cava offers incredible value for traditional method fizz, which is made using local Macabeo and Parellada grapes. Super crisp and dry with savoury, wild strawberry complexity, it’s a wine that shows you don’t have to splash the cash to enjoy delicious fizz on Valentine’s Day!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 11.5%
Find here: £7.99 (Usually £11)

Les Pionniers Brut Champagne

The quality of many of Co-op’s own brand sparkling wines are no secret, and this champagne is no different. For sub £20, you get real elegance with creamy structure, yellow apple and beautiful, buttery brioche. Impeccable value for an excellent bottle.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £18.50

Hattingley Valley Blanc de Blancs

This award-winning, family-owned winery in Hampshire scooped an International Wine Gold with their 2014 Blanc de Blancs, and if you pop it open on Valentine’s Day you’ll see why. Every aspect balances perfectly, from crisp, quintessentially English acidity, lemon zest and green apples to buttery shortbread and a subtly chalky minerality. It’s sophisticated and vibrant from start to finish!

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £36.92

Telmont Réserve Brut Champagne

The perfect Valentine’s marriage of the three champagne grape varieties, this is harmonious blend scooped the Gold Medal at the Champagne Masters in 2022. With fine bubbles, it’s lively in the mouth and offers notes of toasted apples and punchy citrus, all balanced by a cool, saline core. Gorgeously rich, tangy and worth every penny.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 12%
Find here: £47.94

The Best NO-LO Bubbles for Valentine’s Day

Wild Idol Alcohol Free Rosé

There’s nothing underwhelming about this alcohol-free rosé whatsoever. The mousse is clear from the first pour, and the gorgeous delicate pinks screams natural, premium quality. The acidity is refreshing and the fruits are so lively that you don’t wish anything else was added, least of all alcohol. Perfect for a special Valentine’s drink and the opposite of compromise.

Size: 750ml
ABV: 0%
Find here: £29.99

If you’re not feeling the bubbles, then we’ve got even more great drinks choices for Valentine’s Day here!