Visit thriving vineyards in Kent: We name the best

It may come as a surprise to learn that there is a thriving wine-producing industry in Kent, but the county has hundreds of vineyards growing a variety of grapes such as Pinot Noir, Ortega and Dornfelder. A number of Kent wines are award winners and many are internationally recognised. Both still and sparkling wines are produced, with sparkling wines being particularly successful thanks to favourable growing conditions and soils which are similar to those in France’s Champagne region.

Taking a tour of one of Kent’s vineyards makes for a great day out, during which you can learn about the wine making process, sample the wines and wander beautiful estates in the Kent countryside. Below are some of the primary vineyards in the region which offer excellent introductions into the world of Kent-produced wines.

Biddenden Vineyards

Biddenden Vineyards are about a mile from the village of Biddenden. They cover 23 acres and encompass 11 grape varieties, most of which are German such as Ortega, Bacchus and Reichensteiner. This is the oldest commercial vineyard in Kent and it produces white, red, rosé and sparkling wines. Throughout the year visitors can wander in the vineyard and see the winery free of charge as well as taste free samples. In addition, free guided tours are offered at various times throughout the year too and the guided tours are a good way to learn about the history and wine production processes at Biddenden.

The Chapel Down Winery

The Chapel Down Winery is situated near Tenterden and offers daily guided tours from April to October. The tours are about 75 minutes in length, during which time visitors will learn about the different methods and grapes used here as well as get to see the winery and enjoy a tasting. Visitors can also explore the grounds, the vineyards and the herb garden. Adult tickets are £10 each and tickets for children aged 12 to 17 are £2 each.

Gusbourne Estate

Gusbourne Estate specialises in sparkling wines and uses a number of grape varieties including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Gusbourne Estate is located at Appledore and groups can visit by appointment, arranged through contacting the estate’s office at 01233 758666.

Hush Heath Estate

Hush Heath Estate near Staplehurst is a good choice for wine enthusiasts who like sparkling wine as the vineyard prides itself on producing excellent rosé sparkling wine. Free tastings and the chance to explore the vineyard are available from April to December and do not require pre-booking. Guided tours are also available but do need to be booked in advance and cost £15 per person with a minimum number of 6 people required. The guided tour is available both during the week and at weekends at an arranged time suitable to the visitors and lasts about 2.5 hours. The tour takes in the estate and the winery, finishing with a tutored tasting.

Sandhurst Vineyards

Sandhurst Vineyards are located at Hoads Farm in Sandhurst. A variety of grapes are grown here including the Bacchus, Reichensteiner, Pinot Blanc, Rondo and Dornfelder. Rosé, dry and medium-dry white, as well as red wines are produced from the grapes courtesy of the Chapel Down Winery. Visitors can explore the vineyards throughout the year by themselves. However, if a guided tour is desired these are available for £2.50 per person and include a tutored tasting.

Meopham Valley Vineyard

White, rosé and sparkling wines are produced at Meopham Valley Vineyard, courtesy of diverse grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Madeleine Angevine, Triomphe and Leon Millot. Guided tours are available at different dates throughout the year and are £9.50 per person. The tour includes exploring the vines as well as a wine tasting.

Enjoy a fine time with wine

Visiting these quality vineyards is a great way to learn about wine production in Kent, not to mention getting a chance to taste the results of all the work that goes into producing the wine! Informative and highly enjoyable, a vineyard visit is a wonderful day out in Kent.

Why not combine a wine tour with a stay at one of Kent's best glamping sites?