TOM BARNES OF BIDDENDEN VINEYARDS
AS OWNERS OF ONE OF THE OLDEST COMMERCIAL VINEYARDS IN THE UK , THE BARNES FAMILY KNOW EXACTLY WHICH KENTISH TIPPLES WILL TRANSFORM YOUR CHRISTMAS FEAST , TAKING IT TO SENSATIONAL NEW LEVELS .
Tom , tell us which Biddenden drinks you recommend for Christmas and why .
Our flagship wine , Biddenden Ortega , is a firm favourite . This off-dry , fruity white is perfect served as an aperitif or alongside your Christmas turkey . Semi-aromatic on the nose , this wine will bring out the flavours of the meat without overpowering with sweetness .
If red is more your thing , leaner beef cuts pair well with our Dornfelder , or why not change things up and serve our light and fruity Gamay alongside a Christmas goose .
A good quality sparkling is also a must for Christmas , but you should consider other alternatives such as a sparkling cider for non-wine drinkers and some nonalcoholic options . Biddenden ’ s Clearly Juice , presented in a wine-style bottle , is perfect for this , as is our sparkling apple juice . This still gives the bubbles and is packed with flavour .
Why do you think it ’ s so important to buy local produce ?
By buying local , not only are you championing small businesses and supporting your community , you are also showcasing to others what is on your doorstep .
Within our vineyard shop we are proud to stock a wide range of locally produced food and drink , promoting the vast range of exceptional produce on offer in Kent . We are keen to share the message of buying local to our customers , with the aim of supporting the community as a whole , bringing people to the area and other small businesses .
Where can we purchase Biddenden products in Kent ?
We welcome visitors to Biddenden throughout the year with much of our wine , cider and juice being sold from our vineyard shop located on Gribble Bridge Lane . We love sharing our story through guided and self-guided tours but , if you can ’ t make it to Biddenden , we supply our products to independent businesses including farm shops , delis and cafes located within Kent and the South East .
All Biddenden products are available for nationwide delivery on : www . biddendenvineyards . com .
Tom , what do you like to do in Kent when you ’ re not working ?
Growing fruit in the UK , and certainly grapes , is more of a lifestyle ! We live on site so we can be totally reactive to the needs of the vineyard and , at certain times of the year , this doesn ’ t leave much time for other activities . Pub , friends , good food – and who doesn ’ t love a cider or two ! I also enjoy rugby and country sports .
Anything else you would like our readers to know ?
At Biddenden we always strive to develop and progress while staying true to our values as a third generation family business , keeping family at the heart of everything we do . We pride ourselves on having a core loyal following who have supported us over many years and generations and our aim is to be accessible to all , whether you ’ re a wine buff or just someone who likes wine and wants to learn more .
Our vineyard shop is open year round with selfguided tours available May - September , along with pre-booked private and open tours .
99