Kent, located in the southeast of England, is home to over 100 vineyards and wine producers. With its chalky soil and moderate climate, Kent’s wine country is gaining international recognition for its sparkling wines and fresh, fruity varieties.
This article explores the 10 best vineyards for wine tasting in Kent. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, family-friendly fun, or just great English wine, Kent has something for every wine lover.
Kent Vineyards
| Vineyard | Location | Wine Style |
| Chapel Down | Tenterden | Sparkling whites |
| Biddenden Vineyards | Biddenden | Unusual varieties like Ortega |
| Squerryes | Westerham | French classics |
| Hush Heath | Marden | Fruit-forward reds and whites |
| Gusbourne | Appledore | Premium sparkling |
Does Kent Have Vineyards?
Yes! Kent has a long history of wine production dating back to the Romans in AD 43. Today, Kent is home to over 400 hectares across 134 vineyards and wine producers.
Some key facts about Kent’s wine region:
- Chalky soil similar to France’s Champagne region
- Moderate climate due to English Channel location
- Predominately produces sparkling whites and fresh, fruity still wines
- Main grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Bacchus
In recent years, Kent’s wine industry has grown rapidly. Climate change bringing warmer temperatures has contributed to this expansion.
English wine is gaining worldwide recognition for its quality. In 2020, Kent vineyards won an impressive 95 awards, cementing the region as a world-class wine destination.
Where Are the Best Vineyards for Wine Tasting in Kent?
From rustic, family-run estates to state-of-the-art wineries, Kent offers amazing diversity across its many vineyards. Here are 10 of the best for wine tasting:
A Vineyard in Kent with a Restaurant: Mount Vineyard Shoreham
Perched on the North Downs looking over quintessential English countryside, Mount Vineyard offers a gastropub and fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Sip Chardonnay and Pinot Noir as you feast on seasonal, locally-sourced pub fare or exquisite tasting menus paired with the estate’s wines.
A Kent Vineyard with Tours: Hush Heath, Marden
The vibrant Hush Heath welcomes visitors to their Tasting Room and state-of-the-art winery. Guided tours give a behind-the-scenes look at wine production. Fruity Chardonnays, oak-aged reds and golden bubblies can be sampled straight from the barrel.
Kent Vineyard with a Foodie Restaurant: Squerryes Westerham
Squerryes’ restaurant, Wardes, is considered one of the best in Kent. Seasonal menus showcase fresh seafood and meat from local purveyors. Sip their elegant sparklers or zesty Bacchus on an idyllic patio overlooking the vines.
Herbert Hall, Marden, A Small Family Run Vineyard in Kent
At Herbert Hall vineyards date back over 400 years. The charming tasting room offers a warm welcome from the Herbert family themselves. Sample their handcrafted sparkling and still wines made from Seyval Blanc, Pinot Noir and classic Champagne varieties.
Yotes Court, Mereworth a Kent Vineyard with a View
The vistas of the North Downs alone are worth the trip to Yotes Court. Their vines stretch across 100 acres of unspoiled countryside. Generous tastings in the old hop drying shed might include aromatic Bacchus or a crisp Cuvée sparkler.
Biddenden Vineyard, Biddenden, a Kent Vineyard with Great Character
Biddenden has been passed down by the Barnes family for generations. Their 17th century Wealden house and picturesque grounds host tastings showcasing unusual German crosses like Ortega alongside more classic cuvées and Kentish reds. Families can enjoy the tea room, gardens and annual festivals.
A Relaxed Vineyard in Kent: Barnsole, Canterbury
Barnsole steers clear of pretentiousness, aiming to make wine fun for everyone. Their Canterbury taproom features live music nights and food trucks dishing up wood-fired pizza. Pull up an old wine barrel to taste organic Bacchus, solar-powered ciders, and skin-contact orange wines.
A Traditional Vineyard in Kent: Chartham
First planted by the Romans in AD43, Chartham is one of England’s oldest vineyards. The winding 12th century cellars hewn from chalk house oak-aged classics. Taste coastal-influenced Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from some of the oldest vines in England.
A Modern Kent Winery: Woodchurch Wine Estate, Woodchurch
21st century winemaking melds with tradition at Woodchurch. Their contemporary tasting room offers modern takes on Regent, Pinot Noir and Bacchus. Attend one of their festival events, pairing nibbles with award-winning fizz.
A Secret Vineyard in Kent: Red Hill Farm Estate, Wateringbury
Tucked away north of Maidstone, Red Hill remains an insider’s favorite. Its tiny production focuses on unusual German crosses like Ortega. The intimate tasting shed amidst idyllic gardens makes for a memorable wine experience. Reserve to ensure your private tasting.
How to Visit Vineyards in Kent
With wineries dotting the countryside, touring Kent wine country is a breeze. Here are some tips:
- Transportation: Kent vineyards are an easy train ride from London. Having a designated driver or hiring local tours allows for worry-free wine tasting.
- Guided Tours & Tastings: Booking vineyard experiences, restaurants and accommodations in advance ensures availability. The Visit Kent Wine tourism site helps coordinate winery routes.
- Dining & Lodging: Many vineyards offer on-site dining, while cozy cottage rentals allow for multi-day stays surrounded by vines.
With its impressive winemakers, quintessential English scenery and Michelin-star dining, Kent truly offers world-class wine tourism. As the UK’s Garden, it’s the perfect place to savor nature’s bounty one sip at a time.
