Description
About Hooperhayne Vineyard
Hooperhayne Vineyard is nestled on the south-facing slopes of Devonshire’s Coly Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near the Jurassic Coast’s ancient landscape. In 2007, Jane Houldsworth purchased a 500-year-old farmhouse in this idyllic valley near Axminster. Inspired by a nearby vineyard, Jane discovered that Hooperhayne’s land was equally well-suited for vines, sparking her vision.
With expert advice, she selected the site, completed a Vineyard Establishment and Management course, and oversaw the planting of vines in April 2012 using laser-guided machinery. The vineyard flourished during a landmark year for Britain, coinciding with the London Olympics and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
By 2017, the first wines were produced by a skilled winemaker, earning critical and commercial acclaim. Jane balances vineyard management with her London art gallery, which thrives during autumn and winter.
Nearly half of Hooperhayne is planted with Bacchus, celebrated as England’s signature white grape. Renowned wine writer Victoria Moore describes it as evoking “grassy meadows, hawthorn, elderflower, and citrus.” Hooperhayne’s Bacchus Reserve, fresh and aromatic, is perfect as an aperitif or with lighter dishes, with the 2020 vintage winning silver at the 2022 WineGB Awards.
Pinot Noir is the vineyard’s other main grape, used for both still and sparkling rosé. The English Rosé Reserve, crafted in a Provençal style, is pale, dry, and elegant. The 2017 Pinot Noir Brut Vintage, made by Ian Edwards using the traditional méthode champenoise, is a refined sparkling rosé, ideal for any celebration.
