Spring comes to the Gusbourne Vineyard

Not far from the coast, amidst the old Kentish oast houses, you’ll find one of the country’s finest wine producers, Gusbourne. And, with the promise of spring around the corner, there’s no better time to step into their vineyards.

A vineyard can be a stark place in winter. The vines, with their gnarled, woody trunks stand dark and bare against steely trellises. There’s a raw beauty to it – an intense contrast to spring’s lush, vibrant return.

There’s also a sense of promise and potential. Right now, the vines are being pruned and tied in. The team are preparing for the first shoots, ready to curb the vines’ abundance, channelling their energy into fewer, more perfect grapes.

Not all Gusbourne’s winter workers carry secateurs. There’s also a flock of Romney sheep, hypnotically grazing their way through the vines. They tread lightly over the precious soils, removing weeds and fertilising the land.

When you visit Gusbourne’s Estate, you’re very welcome to walk the vineyards and see all this for yourself. But, if the skies are still a little grey, and the weather inclement, then why not settle into their award-winning tasting rooms for an expert-hosted experience? Here’s a few of our favourites.

For a flying visit

If you can’t stop for long, then opt for the hour-long informal yet informative Tasting Flight. The flights are designed so you can compare, contrast and enjoy four different wine styles. Each wine will be poured and presented by one of the knowledgeable team, who’ll be on hand to answer any questions you may have. Choose from three different options: Sparkling, Still and Limited-Editions.

For an afternoon of fine wine

Gusbourne’s Estate Tour is the most popular experience; it’s a wonderful way to explore the vineyards, followed by a wine tasting and lunch. Your day will start with a chilled glass of sparkling before one of the knowledgeable hosts takes you on a leisurely tour of the vineyards. You’ll then enjoy a guided tasting of classic wines plus some limited-editions. Your experience will be rounded off with a delicious, seasonal three-course lunch.

For an indulgent treat

Explore the finest, rarest and most luxurious wines in Gusbourne’s cellar in this exclusive masterclass and four-course lunch, hosted by an Ambassador. You’ll enjoy wines which demonstrate the most luxurious and innovative aspects of Gusbourne winemaking – whether that’s especially generous time on lees, use of the finest barrels or the choice of particularly expressive and high-quality fruit.

You can find out more, book an experience, or explore the latest masterclasses at the estate, here.