Exploring Chapel Down: England’s Premier Winery in Kent, England
Chapel Down stands as a beacon of excellence in the English wine industry, celebrated for its award-winning range of sparkling and still wines.
Situated in the heart of Kent, affectionately known as the Garden of England, Chapel Down offers an unforgettable experience for wine enthusiasts, blending tradition with modern innovation.
This blog post will guide you through six key aspects that make Chapel Down a must-visit destination for any wine lover.
The Legacy of Excellence: Chapel Down’s Rise to the Top
As England’s leading wine producer, Chapel Down has carved out a prestigious place in the world of winemaking. The winery is renowned for its commitment to producing wines of the highest quality, offering what many believe to be the best expression of English terroir.
With a history rooted in innovation and excellence, Chapel Down has not only won numerous awards but has also gained the admiration of top chefs and prestigious establishments across the UK.
The winery’s inclusion in the London Stock Exchange’s ‘1000 Companies to Inspire Britain 2016’ and ‘Cool Brands™ 2015/16’ highlights its status as a trailblazer in the industry.
Terroir and Vineyards: The Heart of English Winemaking
Chapel Down’s vineyards are primarily located on the North Downs of Kent, an area with a terroir remarkably similar to that of the Champagne region in France. The south-facing chalk soils and warm, maritime climate create the perfect conditions for growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Bacchus vines.
These grapes form the backbone of Chapel Down’s exceptional sparkling and still wines. By sourcing fruit from partner vineyards across Kent, Sussex, and Essex, Chapel Down ensures a balance of flavors and consistency in its wines, reflecting the diverse terroirs of South East England.
Where Tradition Meets Innovation in Winemaking
At the heart of Chapel Down’s success is its world-class winemaking team, whose expertise spans sparkling and cool climate wines. The winery employs the Traditional Method, the same method used in Champagne, to craft its sparkling wines, ensuring a high standard of quality.
In 2021, Chapel Down introduced its ‘Discovery Series,’ a collection of wines born from experimental plantings and modern techniques, aimed at exploring the potential of England’s relatively young wine regions.
This blend of tradition and innovation results in wines with balanced acidity, rich fruit characters, and a true expression of English terroir.
Tastings and More
Chapel Down offers visitors an immersive experience in the world of English wine. The winery estate in Tenterden is open to the public year-round, welcoming guests to explore its vineyards and winery through guided tours.
During these tours, visitors learn about the English grape harvest, the intricate process of crafting sparkling wine, and conclude with a tutored tasting of Chapel Down’s award-winning range.
The winery also offers free tastings in the shop, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination for both connoisseurs and casual visitors alike. Group visits are available by prior arrangement, ensuring a tailored experience for all.
Fancy an Amazing Meal? Delight at The Swan at Chapel Down
No visit to Chapel Down is complete without indulging in the culinary offerings at The Swan, the winery’s on-site restaurant. This two AA Rosette restaurant features a menu that showcases the best of local produce, perfectly paired with Chapel Down’s wines.
The restaurant’s stunning setting, combined with its commitment to quality, makes it a dining experience to remember. The winery shop also offers a range of fine foods, local cheeses, and charcuterie, allowing visitors to take a piece of Chapel Down’s gastronomic excellence home with them.
Chapel Down is more than just a winery; it’s a destination that offers a comprehensive experience of English winemaking at its finest. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, a visit to Chapel Down promises to be an enriching and enjoyable experience.
