Celebrating English Wine Week with Gusbourne

The English wine industry has seen remarkable growth in recent years. By 2024, there were over 1,000 vineyards in the UK, reflecting significant expansion. This growth is driven by increasing interest in locally sourced wines and the favourable growing conditions in regions like Kent, Sussex, and Hampshire. The total vineyard area in the UK has grown by 123% over the past decade.

As English Wine Week approaches (21-29 June), there's no better time to shine a spotlight on one of the country's most esteemed vineyards: Gusbourne. Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Kent, Gusbourne has established itself as a beacon of excellence in the world of English wine.  There’s so much choice out there now in English Wines but this is the producer that exudes luxury, time and time again.

Who They Are

Gusbourne's journey began in 2004, when Andrew Weeber acquired the estate with a vision to create world-class English wines. Since then, Gusbourne has been dedicated to producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of their vineyards. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned them a reputation as one of England's premier wine producers.

Where They Are Based

Situated in the charming village of Appledore, Kent, Gusbourne's vineyards thrive in the region's favourable climate and diverse soils. The estate encompasses over 60 hectares in Kent, where meticulous care is given to each vine to ensure the production of the highest quality grapes. This dedication, combined with Kent's mild weather, results in wines that are both expressive and elegant. Additionally, Gusbourne boasts 30 hectares of vineyards adjacent to the prestigious Goodwood Estate in West Sussex, further enhancing their capacity to produce exceptional wines.

Awards and Recognition

Gusbourne's unwavering commitment to excellence has earned them widespread recognition and numerous accolades, firmly establishing their reputation as a leader in English wine production. Among their most distinguished achievements, Gusbourne has been honored as the WineGB Estate Winery of the Year for three consecutive years. Additionally, in 2024, they secured a prestigious position in the 'Top 50' of the 'World's Best Vineyards' awards, making them the only UK vineyard to achieve this honour.

The Gusbourne Experience

Visiting Gusbourne is more than just a wine tasting; it's an immersive experience that captures the essence of English viticulture. The Nest, Gusbourne's award-winning tasting room and cellar door, offers a warm welcome to visitors year-round. Here, guests can enjoy a variety of tours, tastings, and events designed to showcase the best of Gusbourne's wines.

One of the highlights of a visit to Gusbourne is their Estate Tour. This luxurious experience includes a guided tour of the vineyards, a tutored tasting of their finest wines, and a seasonal three-course lunch expertly paired with Gusbourne's award-winning still and sparkling wines. For those looking for a more relaxed visit, Gusbourne also offers picnics in their picturesque outdoor dining area, complete with Kentish cheeses, charcuterie, homemade bread, and a perfectly chilled bottle of Gusbourne Brut Reserve.

Featured Wines

As part of English Wine Week, I’m excited to feature three of Gusbourne's exceptional wines:

Blanc de Blancs 2019

Made exclusively from the finest Chardonnay grapes, this wine embodies elegance and purity. This signature sparkling wine has won gold medals at the Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships and is celebrated for its elegance, complexity and balanced profile

The grapes are carefully selected from Gusbourne's best parcels, ensuring that each bottle reflects the unique terroir of their vineyards. The wine undergoes extended lees aging, which imparts a rich, creamy texture and enhances its depth of flavor.

On the palate, Blanc de Blancs 2019 offers a harmonious blend of green apple, citrus, and mineral notes, complemented by hints of buttered toast and Tarte Tatin richness. Its fine mousse and zesty acidity create a refreshing and sophisticated finish, making it an ideal choice for a sophisticated aperitif or to pair with seafood, particularly freshly shucked oysters.

https://www.gusbourne.com/wines/blanc-de-blancs

Rosé 2019 

Crafted from a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, it’s a sparkling wine that beautifully encapsulates the essence of summer. Crafted

The grapes for this rosé are handpicked from Gusbourne's vineyards in Appledore, Kent, and near Goodwood in West Sussex. 

A small portion of barrel-aged red wine is blended in which adds depth and a beautiful pink hue to the wine. The Rosé 2019 is then aged on the lees for a minimum of 36 months, enhancing its creamy texture and rich flavours.  The palate is vibrant and refreshing, with bright red fruit flavours of ripe strawberries, fresh cherries, and redcurrants. These flavours are balanced by a crisp acidity and a creamy, rounded texture. The finish is long and elegant, with lingering hints of spice and minerality.

Gusbourne's Rosé 2019 is incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairing. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, from fresh salads and light cheeses to summer fruits and seafood.   This Rosé is also one of their most highly awarded wines and won gold at this year's International Wine Challenge.

https://www.gusbourne.com/wines/sparkling-wines

Guinevere Chardonnay

Another standout in Gusbourne's impressive lineup, the Guinevere Chardonnay has earned a Gold medal at the 2024 WineGB Awards. Head Winemaker Mary Bridges describes the new vintage of Guinevere, affectionately known as "Gwin" at the winery, as a true expression of English still Chardonnay. Sourced from the Boot Hill and Commanders vineyards in Kent, this wine showcases carefully judged oak, signature fruit purity, and elegance.

Guinevere Chardonnay is a refined wine, exhibiting the precision of a fine Chablis with a cooler vintage Burgundian style. While it has excellent aging potential, enjoying it now allows you to savour the delightful English fruits of apple, pear, and zesty lemon, complemented by a delicious minerality.

https://www.gusbourne.com/wines/chardonnay-guinev…

Gusbourne's commitment to excellence, combined with their stunning location and award-winning wines, makes them a standout choice for celebrating English Wine Week. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to the world of English wines, a visit to Gusbourne promises an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of English viticulture.