Vineyards in Kent The flagship wine of this 400-acre estate (including apple orchards, wildflower meadows and ancient oak woodlands) is the sparkling Balfour Brut Rosé, which was the official English wine of the London 2012 Olympics. Still and sparkling wines are produced under the Balfour label, plus beer and cider. Take a self-guided tour (free), try a self-tutored tasting at the cellar door (from £5pp) or opt for a one hour tasting masterclass (from £25pp) or full estate tour and tasting (from £45pp).
The Balfour Wine and Dine Experience includes a glass of fizz, in-depth tour, tasting and three-course lunch with wine (£175pp). There’s even an art and wine tour, starring pieces from the vineyard owners’ collection (Wednesdays, £35pp). Visit Hush Heath Estate, Five Oak Lane, Staplehurst, Tonbridge TN12 0HT Chapel Down supply 10 Downing Street and were the first English wine brand served at Ascot – to give you an indication of their calibre.
Established in 2001, the brand produces still and sparkling wines, plus vodka and gin. The majority of its vines are located across Kent’s North Downs, with its flagship vineyard at Tenterden. The two-hour guided tour of the Tenterden estate and winery (from £28pp) includes a wine tasting and there’s also a walking wine tour (where you can taste wines amongst the vines; from £38pp).
Food lovers can opt for a tour that concludes with afternoon tea, dinner at estate restaurant The Swan or a wine tasting paired with local.