Description
About Sherborne Castle Wines Wake Court Vineyard
The tradition of winemaking on the Sherborne Castle Estates dates back to the Middle Ages. Bishop Roger, who built the Old Castle, planted a vineyard on the northern side of the lake, which was mentioned in the bull of Eugenius II by 1146.
In 1982, John Wingfield Digby revived the tradition at Wake Court in Bishops Caundle. The three-hectare vineyard features a south-facing slope with limestone loam and clay soils. The vines are planted using the Geneva Double Curtain system, allowing for optimal light exposure.
The Wake Court Vineyard produces fine wines, including a Special Reserve blend of four grape varieties, traditional method sparkling wines, and a wine brandy aged in oak. Annual production averages 15,000 bottles.
Grape varieties grown include Bacchus, Pinot Noir, Regner, Reichensteiner, Schonburger, and Seyval Blanc. After harvesting, the wine is produced by contract winemaker Steve Brooksbank using modern technology and equipment.
Interestingly, Sir Kenelm Digby, a member of the Digby family, invented the sparkling wine bottle in the 17th century. Today, the Sherborne Castle Estates continue to honour this legacy with their exceptional wines.
