(written exclusively for Absolutely Sussex and published in their October 2024 edition)
Calling all natural wine lovers
Brighton Natural Wine Fair is Brighton’s first and only event that celebrates sustainable and low-intervention winemaking, featuring the crème de la crème of UK producers. The second fair took place on September 7th, with more fun lined up for 2025! Whether you're a natural wine pro or a pet nat newbie, these folks are guaranteed to have something to tickle your tastebuds.
Chill neighbourhood hangout
Located right by the Arsenal stadium in London, Highbury Library is a laid-back bar and shop serving natural wine, craft beer, and some tasty vinyl. If you are looking for an unpretentious place that is passionate about what they are doing, this is your spot. Pop over and discover your new favourite hangout where every pour hits just right!
Red Wine Rebels
So you thought England cannot produce full-bodied red wine ? Warehorne Vineyard, in the heart of Kent, is breaking the rules of English wine! With the biggest plantings of Divico grapes in the whole of the UK, these guys are crafting a deep, bold, and rich red that defies expectations. And they are only just getting started!
Nutbourne Vineyards: A home to Green Excellence!
It’s not often that I visit a vineyard and find myself truly enamoured… but Nutbourne Vineyards — with their picturesque landscapes, charming owners, and a wholehearted commitment to sustainability — has completely won me over! Nestled in West Sussex, Nutbourne is very much a family business - the Gladwins have been running the estate for nearly 30 years and are still involved in day-to-day life at the vineyard.
The vines, spread across 26 acres, are enjoying an ideal growing terroir, with a warm microclimate, south-facing slopes, and the same green sand soils as much of the Champagne region in France. Throughout the year, the vines are carefully nurtured and come harvest, the grapes are picked by hand. This meticulous care has not gone unnoticed, and Nutbourne Vineyards' wines are regularly earning multiple prestigious awards, including from WineGB, Decanter Awards, and the International Wine Challenge! Each label features artwork by Bridget Gladwin, co-owner and talented painter, whose stunning creations add a personal touch to every bottle.
In addition to producing smashing wines, Nutbourne is also a beacon of sustainability! They approach winemaking with the ethos of traditional farming, seamlessly integrating modern eco-conscious practices. The vineyard is proud to be Carbon Neutral, offsetting their cultivation efforts with wildflower meadows and natural habitats. Water is harvested from building roofs for irrigation, and soil health is enhanced by recycling organic matter and minimising chemical use.
If you are ready to fall in love this season, head over to West Sussex to discover why Nutbourne is capturing hearts and taste buds alike!
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