What’s better than visiting one vineyard? Going to an event showcasing multiple English & Welsh vineyards all in one delightful location. As the number of British vineyards are increasing – so are the fabulous festivals, wine fayres and celebrations.
The Wine Garden of England (a group of nine Kent vineyards) host a ‘Summer Celebration’ at the beginning of June. In 2024 it was held at Chilham Castle, the home of Domain Evremond (an Anglo-French collaboration between Hatch Mansfield and Taittinger). Although their first wines weren’t yet released it was an opportunity to visit their magnificent grounds and sample wines from the other eight producers. Each vineyard had their own area spread around a lake. Multiple wine choices were available, and visitors used the tokens included in the ticket price to choose one wine from each producer.
There were food trucks, a bar area and live music – giving it a proper celebration vibe. It was even walking distance from Chilham station making logistics very easy. The next event takes place in the same location on 7th June 2025 and tickets are already on sale.
Next up was the Vineyards of Hampshire Fizz Fest (celebrating its 10th anniversary!) at the end of June. It took place at The Grange Vineyard and Winery - a 15-minute taxi ride from Winchester station. Eight vineyards were set up in a large Tasting Marquee giving access to their full ranges of sparkling and still wines – 26 in total! There were plenty of food stalls, a fizz bar, hay bales and deckchairs to sit on (visitors were also encouraged to bring their own seating) and people set themselves up for an afternoon of delicious food, wine and live music. There were also a range masterclasses and tours available at an additional cost.
Each year a different Hampshire vineyard hosts the event and in 2025 it’s the turn of Raimes Vineyard near Alresford. Fizz Fest 2025 takes place on 29th June. Tickets are likely to go on sale early in the new year.
And it’s not just the south of England enjoying wine celebrations. 2024 saw the first Bredon Wine Fayre take place at Deer Park Wines in Worcestershire, bringing together five vineyards from The Cotswolds, Warwickshire and Wales. Again, visitors could enjoy food, live music and there was a programme of free talks and paid masterclasses – all in a stunning setting with deer wandering in the distance. I’ll be keeping a close look out for any information about 2025.
Rounding off the summer, on 25th August, was another new event – Great Yorkshire Wine & Fizz Festival at Yorkshire Heart Vineyard. The vineyard is no stranger to hosting successful events and even offers camping and glamping options for those who want a full festival experience. There were seven vineyards showcasing their ranges, including many award-winning wines to taste. With live music and food options from the host vineyard's Winehouse Café, as well as Pan Sushi, this was a fantastic way to spend the bank holiday weekend. The organisers hope to establish it as an annual event - maybe even hosting it at different vineyards around the county. Can't wait for more details.
These events are a great way to sample multiple English (and Welsh) wines in a fun, relaxed environment. If you missed out this summer, then make a date for next year.
Comentários