English Wine Guide

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BALFOUR WINERY: IS IT REALLY ENGLAND’S BEST VINEYARD TO VISIT?

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Spoiler alert – I love Balfour winery. Over the years, I believe that I’ve visited at least five times, taking many friends along for for ride too. If anyone asks me for a vineyard recommendation in Kent – I will always suggest Balfour.

As a dog friendly, family friendly vineyard with plenty of space – it’s the perfect place for just about anyone to visit. Plus, it’s easy to get to from London.

So, is Balfour Winery really England’s best vineyard to visit? I’d like to enter a guilty plea your honour, I think it is. And here’s why.

Balfour Winery: First impressions

I first visited Balfour Winery in the summer of 2021. It was a blisteringly hot summer’s day. Accompanied by my now partner of three years, we decided to explore a few Kent vineyards on bicycle. We were in the early days of courting and the hedonism of vineyard hopping seemed an ideal way to spend a Sunday in the countryside.

Arriving by bicycle, we swung into the grounds of Balfour excitedly. As luck, or design, would have it, Balfour had anticipated that a few mad hatters like us would choose to make their way to the vineyard by bike and had diligently installed parking for our two wheeled vehicles.

As soon as I entered Balfour, I knew that I’d love it. The visitor space is airy, light and full of design features.

From the upmarket visitor area at Balfour, huge glass doors lead out to the panoramic terrace area. Stepping outside is like entering a portal that magically transports you to the vineyards of South Africa.

Chic umbrellas shade you from the sun, or save you from British rain. In front of the terrace, vines dance in the wind, beckoning you to explore them.

The experience at Balfour Winery

Since my first visit a few summers ago, Balfour have continued to refine the experiences that they offer visitors. One of the things that I love about this place, is that there’s so much flexibility about how you visit and enjoy the vineyard.

Balfour offer tours and tastings – a classic two hour tour with a tutored wine tasting. For something a bit more special, there’s a wine and dine experience, including a three course lunch in the Winemakers Kitchen – a new restaurant offering in the vineyard.

There are also various organized events throughout the season – such as yoga in the vines.

These events are great, but for me, what I love is the ability to pop into Balfour for a more informal tasting flight or self-guided nose around the vines. Booking is recommended for drinks on the terrace on the weekend. Wine flights start at £15, which is pretty good value as far as English wine goes.

Balfour Winery: The all important wine

You’ll notice that the wines at Balfour are all named after family members – for example, Nanette’s Rose and Leslie’s Reserve – a nod to the fact that this is still a family run vineyard.

Balfour makes a range of still and sparkling wines, amongst which are many award winning bottles. My personal favourites are the Springfield Chardonnay – lightly oaked, delicate but sumptuous at the same time. As well as Leslie’s Reserve Gold – rich, creamy and evocative of all things expensive.

The Albariño, which sees Balfour making history using a grape that normally grown in Spain, is a new addition that I am yet to try.

As a total bonus, if you’re visiting the vineyard with someone who is more into the hops than the vines – Balfour offers Jake’s Range of beers and ciders.

Balfour Winery: The Low Down

Getting to Balfour Winery

Balfour Winery is easily accessible my train. Take a direct train from London Bridge, Waterloo East or Charing Cross to Marden train station in Kent. From here it is possible to walk, cycle or book a cab to the vineyard.

Alternatives to Balfour Winery

If you’re keen to visit a vineyard in Kent but Balfour doesn’t sound like it’s for you – you can find a full breakdown of different options here.

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.

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