Strolling through acres of glorious greenery in one of Kent’s vibrant vineyards sounds like the perfect way to spend a summer day, don’t you agree? Escape the hustle and retreat to the rolling countryside with a refreshing glass of some of the Garden Of England's finest wine in hand. If you’re searching for an idyllic setting to taste, tour and take in one of Kent’s vineyards then look no further. Our friends at Gusbourne Estate have poured together a blog all about their beautiful 60 hectare estate, so you can tantalise your taste buds with the fabulous flavour of Kent…
From viticulture methods to the techniques of ageing wine, a quest for quality, a dedication to detail and a deep respect for nature are all at the heart of Gusbourne’s ethos. An abundance of award-winning wine is produced from the estate every year and each glass created is sourced solely from their own vineyards. To try exclusively vintage sparkling wines that reflect the unique condition of each Kentish growing season, tour Gusbourne's Wine Garden this summer…
A bit about us…
First owned by John de Goosebourne, the original estate in Appledore dates back to 1410, Andrew Weeber took over in 2004 to create wines that would stand along-side the globe's finest offerings. Since the first release in 2006, Gusbourne has been named 'English Wine Producer of the Year' three times at the International Wine and Spirit competition. All grapes are hand picked from each vineyard parcel and whole bunches are gently pressed to extract only the finest juice. Once bottled the wines are stacked by hand in the cellar before beginning a period of prolonged lees ageing.
The Nest...
In 2017 ‘The Nest Tasting Room’ launched to celebrate the significance of English Wine tourism, it’s used as a space to present the vineyard's critical success and exhibit the history of Gusbourne and the local area. The tasting room which is open all year round is the perfect way to try a flavour of Kent. With a range of Gusbourne’s finest wines to taste, buy and explore, you can even take this wonderful wine home with you. The estate also have a range of tours on offer to suit everyone's taste buds, so make a day of it, explore glorious vineyards and learn the secrets of producing world-class English Sparkling Wine.
Tasting Tours…
The Vineyard Tour
Your visit to Gusbourne wouldn't be complete without a tasting tour around the vibrant vineyard, whether it’s to explore the sun-kissed vines yourself, or a gift to a friend, there are several different types of tours available to enjoy. If time is limited the ‘Vineyard Tour’ is a perfect introduction to the vines and wines, discover the secrets behind the wine making process, discover why the Kent corner is so special to viticulture and end with a tutored wine tasting in the The Nest.
The Estate Tour
For those searching to unwind in the countryside with a glass in hand, the Estate Tour is the one for you. The day begins with welcome drinks and nibbles, before enjoying a full tour of the estate. After learning about the processes involved in making Gusbourne’s exquisite wines, experience a tutored tasting that gives you exclusive access to unique wines that do not feature in the standard tour, these include rare releases, older vintages and limited editions. Finally, a seasonal three-course lunch prepared with locally sourced ingredients is served to complement the eight different wines enjoyed.
Self Guided Tour
If you would rather explore at your own pace, Gusbourne’s self-guided walking tour is the perfect option for you, no booking is required so simply arrive, take a map and venture out. Once you've finished delving into the beautiful wine garden, head to The Nest and enjoy a glass of Gusbourne's finest while enjoying panoramic views of the vineyards.
Discovery Tour
Tantalise your taste buds with this spectacular experience, try an extended range of Gusbourne wines paired with a delectable dish from the fresh and seasonal lunch menu. Replenish in refreshments on arrival, explore the tasting room overlooking the vineyards and tuck into a tutored tasting. Discover the hidden secrets of Gusbourne as you sample wines that aren't featured on typical tours such as rare releases, older vintages and limited editions.
Gusbourne is the only three-time winner of the IWSC English Wine Producer of the Year. Visit them in Appledore, Kent to explore the vineyards, meet the people behind Gusbourne and enjoy some of their award-winning English Sparkling Wines. For more information visit www.gusbourne.com
