English Wine Guide

---

10 BEST VINEYARDS IN ESSEX TO VISIT FOR WINE TASTING THIS SUMMER.

---

Essex, known for its picturesque landscapes and historic charm, is also home to a thriving wine scene that is steadily gaining recognition among oenophiles. From boutique vineyards in quaint villages to sprawling estates set amidst rolling hills, Essex offers a diverse array of wineries waiting to be explored. In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of Essex’s vineyards, from the unique experience of wine tasting to the special allure of Crouch Valley wine, and finally, a curated list of the 10 best vineyards to visit this summer.

Map of vineyards in Essex

Here’s a map of the best vineyards to visit in Essex.

Can you go wine tasting in Essex?

Absolutely! Wine tasting in Essex is a delightful experience that allows visitors to sample the region’s finest wines while soaking in the beauty of the surrounding countryside. Many vineyards across Essex offer guided tours and tastings where guests can learn about the winemaking process, stroll through the vineyards, and of course, enjoy sampling a selection of wines.

What’s so special about Crouch Valley wine in Essex?

Crouch Valley wine holds a special place in Essex’s viticultural landscape. Named after the River Crouch that winds its way through the region, Crouch Valley benefits from a unique microclimate characterized by mild temperatures and abundant sunshine. These conditions, combined with the region’s rich soil and gentle slopes, create optimal growing conditions for grape varieties such as Bacchus, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay.

The result is a range of elegant and expressive wines that reflect the terroir of Essex’s Crouch Valley.

Using the interactive map on this blog post (found above), you can find the best vineyards in the Crouch Valley to visit.

10 best vineyards in Essex to visit this summer

Bardfield Vineyard

Situated in the charming village of Great Bardfield, Bardfield Vineyard is a boutique winery known for its artisanal approach to winemaking and small-batch wines. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the vineyard and tastings of their handcrafted wines, including Bacchus and Pinot Noir.

⭐Make sure you check out the vineyard shop which sells the fantastic wines and alpaca wool from the farm!

🍷Bardfield vineyard is open Monday to Friday – you can book a tour, or self-guided tour, or visit the shop 10:00 to 16:00. Find out more here.

Clayhill Vineyard

Located in Bulphan, Clayhill Vineyard offers guided tours and tastings amidst its scenic surroundings. This family-run vineyard produces a range of still and sparkling wines, with a focus on quality and sustainability.

🍷Cellar Door open Friday to Sunday, wine tasting and tours by appointment (contact via booking@clayhill.co.uk as the website is not up and running yet.)

Crouch Ridge Vineyard – Crouch Valley

Perched atop the rolling hills of South Essex, Crouch Ridge Vineyard boasts sweeping views and premium still and sparkling wines. Guests can enjoy guided tours of the vineyard and tastings that showcase their range of Bacchus & Pinot Noir.

⭐One of the Crouch Valley vineyards with an excellent visitor experience

🍷Visit for lunch, brunch, afternoon tea or tasting – they also offer a well priced self-guided wine flight. Book tours and tastings via the website.

Danbury Ridge Wine Estate – Crouch Valley

Found in Danbury, this family-owned estate is dedicated to sustainable viticulture and produces a range of award-winning wines.

⭐ A crouch valley estate, with three separate vineyard growing grapes

🍷 Visit by appointment only

Dedham Vale Vineyard

Tucked away near Colchester, Dedham Vale Vineyard offers tranquil tastings and stunning views of the Essex countryside. Guests can sample their range of still and sparkling wines, including Bacchus and Pinot Noir, while learning about the winemaking process.

🍷Tours and tastings costs £27 per person and take place every Saturday during the summer. Book in advance to visit.

New Hall Vineyard – Crouch Valley

With over 1,000 years of winemaking history, New Hall Vineyard is one of England’s oldest and most esteemed wine producers. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the vineyards and state-of-the-art winery, follrowed by tastings of their signature varietals, including Pinot Gris and Ortega.

⭐ A crouch valley vineyard, be sure to walk the Vineyard Trail when you visit. The trail takes you through the vineyards to see the different varietals of grape and the meadow. A fun afternoon out for the family.

🍷This year, there are three open day events throughout the summer. These have BBQs, live music and chances to try the wine. Find out more here.

Mersea Island Vineyard

Escape to the scenic island of Mersea and enjoy tastings of still and sparkling wines amidst marshland vistas. Wines from Mersea Island are made from their unique grapes including Reichensteiner, Ortega and Muller Thurgau.

🍷The vineyard hosts events and there’s a vineyard cafe to pop in and enjoy a snack. Find out more here.

Missing Gate Vineyard

Located in Bicknacre, Missing Gate Vineyard offers guided tours and tastings of its handcrafted wines, including Bacchus, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc & Pinot Noir. Guests can explore the vineyard’s picturesque grounds and enjoy sampling their range of still and sparkling wines.

🍷Tours and tastings will be starting in 2024 – check out the Missing Gate website for more information.

Saffron Grange Vineyard

In the heart of Essex, Saffron Grange Vineyard is known for its premium sparkling wines and picturesque setting. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and tastings of their fizz amongst the vineyards surroundings.

⭐On Fridays throughout the summer, Saffron Grange holds sun downer evenings. You can sip a few glasses of wine and enjoy food.

🍷Tours and tastings, including a “try flight” are available at the vineyard. Best to book in advance.

Toppesfield Vineyard

Explore this family-run vineyard in the village of Toppesfield and sample its range of traditional English wines. Guided tours and tastings allow guests to learn about the vineyard’s history and winemaking process while enjoying views of the Essex countryside. Toppsefield are known for their Bacchus, Rose and classic brut.

Unfortunately Toppsefield don’t currently offer tastings, but you can buy wine from their website, or by appointment at the cellar door.

Where to next?

A few of my favourite things

Looking for a gift for yourself or a wine lover in your life? Here are a few of my favourite English Wine things.

---

Please note that some links on my website are partnered with affiliates. Using an affiliate link does not make it more expensive for you to purchase. We receive a small commission whenever you buy something which in turn allows me to keep writing independent content. Your support is greatly appreciated.

I participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

---