Photo: Will Hearle
Nestled in the heart of the South Downs National Park, Stopham Estate is home to 21,000 vines, which enjoy sunny, south-facing slopes in the medieval hamlet of Stopham, near Pulborough.
As specialists in crafting aromatic still white wines from Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Bacchus and classic method sparkling wine, Stopham pride themselves on their sustainable approach to winemaking. The vineyard, planted in 2007 by winemaker Simon Woodhead, boasts sandy, free-draining soil and some of the best views in the county – which make far happy vines and happy winemakers at this beautiful, 15 acre estate.
Visitors to the estate can enjoy vineyard, winery and wine tasting tours with the winemaker on Saturdays at 11am or 2pm between April and October. The tours include an in-depth tour of both the vineyard and the winery, offering a deep insight into the winemaking process, from soil to bottle.
The estate’s clean, crisp aromatic styles have won many industry awards (IEWA, Wine GB, Decanter WWA to name a few – and pair very well with fish, seafood and spicy dishes.
Photo: Will Hearle
Photo: Will Hearle
© Stopham Vineyard Ltd
Photo: Will Hearle
Winemaker tours run every Saturday from April to October at 11am and 2pm, and can be booked via Stopham’s website.
Winemaker tours can be booked via Stopham’s website. Or for a private tour, contact the winery directly. Add lunch by the river Arun for even more of a memorable and enjoyable day out.
Not directly on the estate, but the Pig Hotel in Madehurst (near Arundel) is nearby, and offers excellent accommodation and delicious food. Cowdray Estate in nearby Midhurst has holiday cottages to rent in their beautiful grounds, and their farm shop is well worth a visit.
Wine  
A boutique wine producer creating world-class still and sparkling wines nestled in the heart of East Sussex.
Landscape  
The Common is a tranquil place where you can enjoy woodlands, open grassy areas, lakes, stunning bluebells in springtime, and splendid views towards the South Downs. The networks of paths are great for countryside walks and for spotting rare fauna and flora. Picnic tables are provided.
Wine  
With outstanding views towards the South Downs Albourne Estate offers a unique flavour of English wines with expert-guided small group tours and tastings.
Story | Art | Landscape | Wine  
Away from the coast and the broad reach of the downs there’s another Sussex. An ancient High Weald landscape of woods, farms and villages steeped in history.
Art  
Here's our pick of the biggest exhibitions to see across Sussex this summer.
Beer  
Here’s a guide to some of the top craft beer taprooms in Sussex, including Beak Brewery, 360, Cloak & Dagger and more.
Wine  
Located close to the picturesque market town of Petworth in West Sussex, Roebuck Estates was established in 2013 by two friends with a shared passion.
Events | Wine  
Stargaze in Sussex’s Dark Sky Reserve.
Events | Art  
Opening the door on Sussex artists at work.