When we think of wine-producing countries, our minds immediately go to France, Italy, or Spain. Rarely do we associate England with winemaking, but little do people know that this country has been producing wines for centuries. In fact, English wines have gained global recognition and are now competing with their European counterparts in terms of quality and taste.
The rise of English wines can be attributed to its climate and terroir, which is perfect for growing grapes. With rolling hills, chalky soils, and a cool maritime climate, England’s wine regions offer the ideal conditions for producing world-class sparkling wines and still wines.
If you’re a wine enthusiast looking to explore new and unique wine regions, then England should definitely be on your list. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the 7 wine regions in England, each with its own distinctive charm and character.
1. The Cotswolds
Located in the heart of England, the Cotswolds is a beautiful region known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and quaint countryside. It is also home to some of England’s finest wineries, making it an ideal destination for wine lovers.
History of Winemaking in the Cotswolds
Winemaking in the Cotswolds dates back to the Roman times when they planted vineyards throughout England. However, it wasn’t until the 20th century that winemaking started gaining popularity in this region. Today, the Cotswolds is one of the fastest-growing wine regions in England, with over 50 vineyards and 160 hectares of vines.
Grape Varieties Grown
The Cotswolds primarily specializes in growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, the classic grape varieties used in making Champagne. These grapes thrive in the limestone-rich soils and cool climate, producing elegant and complex sparkling wines.
Apart from these, you can also find some wineries experimenting with other grape varieties like Bacchus, Ortega, and Seyval Blanc for their still wines.
Must-Visit Wineries
- Three Choirs Vineyard – This is one of the oldest vineyards in England and offers a range of award-winning wines. Take a tour of their winery and enjoy a tasting session overlooking the stunning vineyards.
- Woodchester Valley Vineyard – Set on a beautiful 45-acre estate, this winery produces exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. They also offer tours and tastings, as well as a cozy café serving delicious local produce.
- Poulton Hill Estate – With spectacular views of the Cotswolds countryside, this family-owned winery produces delicious still and sparkling wines. Take a vineyard tour and enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
2. Kent
Known as the “Garden of England,” Kent is not only famous for its orchards and hop gardens but also for its thriving wine industry. Located in the southeast of England, Kent is home to some of the oldest and most renowned wineries in the country.
History of Winemaking in Kent
Winemaking in Kent dates back to the Roman times, but it wasn’t until the 1950s that it was revived by English wine pioneer, Ian Goring. Today, there are over 50 wineries in Kent, and the region is recognized as one of the top wine-producing areas in England.
Grape Varieties Grown
The chalky soils of Kent are ideal for growing classic Champagne grape varieties like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. These grapes thrive in the cool climate, producing elegant and complex sparkling wines. You can also find some wineries experimenting with other grape varieties like Bacchus, Ortega, and Seyval Blanc for their still wines.
Must-Visit Wineries
- Gusbourne Estate – This award-winning estate is known for its top-quality sparkling wines made using the traditional method. Take a tour of their vineyards and cellar and indulge in a tasting session of their delicious wines.
- Chapel Down Winery – Set in the heart of the Kent countryside, this winery offers an unforgettable wine experience. Take a guided tour, enjoy a tasting session, and dine at their on-site restaurant serving exquisite dishes paired with their wines.
- Hush Heath Estate – This family-owned estate produces a range of still and sparkling wines using locally grown grapes. Book a tour and tasting to learn about their winemaking process and enjoy a glass of their award-winning Balfour Brut Rosé.
3. Sussex
Located in the south of England, Sussex is another region that has gained recognition for its high-quality wines. With rolling hills, chalky soils, and a maritime climate, Sussex has all the right ingredients for producing exceptional wines.
History of Winemaking in Sussex
Winemaking in Sussex dates back to the Roman times, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that the industry was revived. Today, there are over 50 wineries in Sussex, and the region is recognized as one of the top wine-producing areas in England.
Grape Varieties Grown
Sussex is known for producing world-class sparkling wines using classic Champagne grape varieties like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. These grapes thrive in the cool climate, producing crisp and refreshing wines. Apart from these, you can also find some wineries experimenting with other grape varieties like Bacchus, Ortega, and Seyval Blanc for their still wines.
Must-Visit Wineries
- Ridgeview Estate – This award-winning winery has been producing exceptional sparkling wines for over 25 years. Take a tour of their vineyards, cellar, and enjoy a tasting session while taking in the stunning views of the South Downs.
- Rathfinny Wine Estate – Set on a beautiful 600-acre estate, this winery produces some of the finest sparkling wines in Sussex. Book a guided tour and tasting to learn about their winemaking process and enjoy a glass of their delicious wine at their restaurant overlooking the vineyards.
- Camel Valley Vineyard – This small family-owned vineyard produces a range of award-winning still and sparkling wines. Take a tour of their vineyards and cellar and sip on some of their delicious wines while admiring the breathtaking views of the Camel Valley.
4. Hampshire
Hampshire may be famous for its rolling hills, ancient forests, and historic cities, but it is also home to some of England’s most renowned wineries. With its chalky soils and cool climate, Hampshire offers the perfect conditions for growing grapes and producing high-quality wines.
History of Winemaking in Hampshire
Winemaking in Hampshire dates back to the Roman times, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that it was revived. Today, there are over 30 wineries in Hampshire, and the region is recognized as one of the top wine-producing areas in England.
Grape Varieties Grown
Hampshire is known for producing excellent sparkling wines using classic Champagne grape varieties like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. These grapes thrive in the cool climate, producing crisp and refreshing wines. You can also find some wineries experimenting with other grape varieties like Bacchus, Ortega, and Seyval Blanc for their still wines.
Must-Visit Wineries
- Hattingley Valley – This award-winning winery is known for its world-class sparkling wines made using the traditional method. Take a guided tour of their vineyards and state-of-the-art winery and indulge in a tasting session overlooking the rolling hills of Hampshire.
- Jenkyn Place Vineyard – Set in the idyllic Hampshire countryside, this boutique winery produces some of the finest sparkling and still wines. Take a tour of their vineyards, cellar, and enjoy a tasting session while taking in the stunning views.
- Cottonworth Wines – This family-owned winery specializes in producing high-quality sparkling and still wines using locally grown grapes. Book a tour and tasting to learn about their winemaking process and taste their delicious wines paired with local produce.
5. East Anglia
East Anglia may not be as popular as other wine regions in England, but it has been quietly making a name for itself in the wine industry. With its mild climate and fertile soils, this region offers ideal conditions for growing grapes and producing exceptional wines.
History of Winemaking in East Anglia
Winemaking in East Anglia dates back to the Roman times, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that it was revived. Today, there are over 50 wineries in East Anglia, and the region is recognized as one of the top wine-producing areas in England.
Grape Varieties Grown
East Anglia specializes in producing world-class sparkling wines using classic Champagne grape varieties like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. These grapes thrive in the cool climate, producing elegant and complex wines. You can also find some wineries experimenting with other grape varieties like Bacchus, Ortega, and Seyval Blanc for their still wines.
Must-Visit Wineries
- Chet Valley Vineyard – Located in the picturesque Waveney Valley, this small family-owned winery produces a range of award-winning still and sparkling wines. Take a tour of their vineyards and enjoy a tasting session while taking in the stunning views.
- Winbirri Vineyards – This award-winning winery is known for its top-quality still and sparkling wines made using locally grown grapes. Book a guided tour and tasting to learn about their sustainable winemaking practices and taste their delicious wines.
- New Hall Vineyard – With over 100 hectares of vineyards, this estate produces some of the finest still and sparkling wines in East Anglia. Take a tour of their state-of-the-art winery and indulge in a tasting session of their award-winning wines.
6. Cornwall
Cornwall may be famous for its sandy beaches and rugged coastline, but it is also home to some excellent wineries. With its mild climate and fertile soils, Cornwall has become a popular wine destination in recent years.
History of Winemaking in Cornwall
Winemaking in Cornwall dates back to the Roman times, but it wasn’t until the 1970s that it was revived. Today, there are over 30 wineries in Cornwall, and the region is recognized as one of the top wine-producing areas in England.
Grape Varieties Grown
Cornwall specializes in producing world-class sparkling wines using classic Champagne grape varieties like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. These grapes thrive in the mild climate, producing elegant and complex wines. You can also find some wineries experimenting with other grape varieties like Bacchus, Ortega, and Seyval Blanc for their still wines.
Must-Visit Wineries
- Knightor Winery – This beautiful winery produces a range of award-winning still and sparkling wines using locally grown grapes. Take a tour of their vineyards, cellars, and enjoy a tasting session paired with delicious local produce.
- Camel Valley Vineyard – This family-owned winery is known for its world-class sparkling wines made using the traditional method. Book a guided tour and tasting to learn about their winemaking process and take in the stunning views of the Camel Valley.
- Polgoon Vineyard & Orchard – Set in a stunning location overlooking Mount’s Bay, this winery specializes in producing high-quality still and sparkling wines. Take a tour of their vineyards, orchards, and enjoy a tasting session while admiring the beautiful scenery.
Conclusion
As you can see, England has a lot to offer when it comes to wine tourism. With its diverse range of wine regions, each with its own unique charm and character, England is quickly becoming a top destination for wine enthusiasts.
So, the next time you’re planning a wine trip, why not explore the hidden gems of England and discover the world-class wines that this country has to offer. From the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the rugged coastline of Cornwall, there’s something for everyone in these 7 wine regions of England. Cheers!
