Experience Ashford & Tenterden Where Tradition & Unite - 2021/22 | Page 34

GRAPE TO GLASS

From Grape to Glass

Book a vineyard tour and discover Kent ’ s finest vineyards just a short drive from Ashford and Tenterden ...
Kent is prime territory for award-winning English wine . With it ’ s south-facing chalky soil and mild climate , the region hosts the perfect conditions for growing grapes successfully . Our soil is in fact so good that even renowned Champagne producers Taittinger have now taken to growing here to produce their own English Sparkling Wine . Fortunately , many of the leading vineyards are based in Ashford and Tenterden ’ s surrounding countryside , making them the perfect base to explore and discover Kent ’ s Wine Garden of England – the dream destination .
Chapel Down Winery
Small Hythe , Tenterden , TN30 7NG
Quite possibly the most recognised English vineyard , a visit to Chapel Down should most definitely be on the cards . 22 acres of stunning vineyards are just waiting to be explored – this place is the epitome of The Garden of England , covering it all in just one visit would be near impossible . Capture the authenticity of this renowned vineyard with one of the experiences on offer ; from guided tours , tastings and masterclasses , to a memorable , delectable lunch at The Swan . Book onto a tour of the vineyard and winery , and after experience a tutored tasting of award-winning still and sparkling wines . The guided tours are available 7 days a week and it ’ s recommended that these are booked in advance .
Guided Tours £ 25 pp
Biddenden Vineyards
Gribble Bridge Lane , Biddenden , TN27 8DF
Explore Kent ’ s oldest vineyard and embark on a selfguided tour , brand-new for 2021 . Fully immerse yourself amongst the vines , walk the marked route and discover the Biddenden family history , the vineyard and the different grape varieties that are grown on the estate . You ’ ll also have a chance to sample some of the glorious wines during the tasting flight where ( depending on which tour you choose ) you ’ ll try either three or six wines . There ’ s also no need to book , all you have to do is check in , and purchase your self-guided pack at the Vineyard shop upon arrival . For something a little more thorough , opt for the guided tour ; an exciting , informative experience that ’ s great fun for family and friends .
Self Guided Tours £ 5 pp including 3 wines £ 10 pp including 6 wines Private Tours £ 40 pp ( min of 2 people per booking )
Westwell Wines
The Vyneyarde , Westwell Lane , Westwell , TN27 0BW
Located on the outskirts of Ashford on the chalky slopes of the North Downs just below the Pilgrims Way , these guys have been the dark horses in producing excellent , and award-winning in fact , English wines . Join the team on a guided tour around the estate and learn all about the vineyard , vines and their approach to sustainable winegrowing . Following that you ’ ll have the opportunity to taste five delicious wines during a tutored tasting tasting . What ’ s more , you ’ ll have the opportunity to purchase wines from the cellar door at discounted prices . Discover the Westwell philosophy ; ‘ plant well , respect the soil and make great , honest wines from brilliant fruit ’ and the story behind their success .
Vineyard tour and tasting £ 20 pp
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