Rathfinny – Tasting rooms
Rathfinny Wine Estate was established in 2010 by entrepreneurial couple Sarah and Mark Driver. Eight years of work, and more than 200 acres of planting resulted in their first Sussex Sparkling wine being launched in June 2018.
Rathfinny winter program
Throughout the winter months, Rathfinny Tasting Room will be open Monday to Friday from 10am till’ 5pm for lunches, offering a carefully designed seasonal menu for guests to enjoy, applauding the modern British cuisine and Rathfinny’s Sparkling Sussex and Cradle Valley wines. Book a table here.
The chef
The menu at The Tasting Rooms has been created by celebrated Head Chef, Chris Bailey who earned a Michelin Star whilst at The Black Rat in Winchester, and has worked in top restaurants in London and Spain. Chris’ love of local and seasonal produce made his move to Sussex so much easier, since produce from the surrounding land and sea is so abundant.
The Wine
Just three miles from the sea, located on a south facing slope of the South Downs National Park, Rathfinny is perfectly situated for growing its mix of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier grapes. In addition to Sussex Sparkling, Rathfinny produce some still wines under their Cradle Valley label and gin and vermouth under their Seven Sisters label.
Wine tasting
If you are not looking to dine then luckily The Tasting Room is also just that, between 10am and 5pm Monday to Sunday visitors are invited to partake in ad hoc tasting sessions at the centrally positioned copper bar, where an expert from the Rathfinny estate is always on hand.
A lasting memory
To take your experience home with you, the Cellar Door gift shop adjoins the Tasting Room where wines and spirits from the Rathfinny Estate can be purchased. Or if you’d rather not go home at all, the Flint Barns is a beautifully restored 10 roomed guest house situated in the Vineyard. With its own dining room and dedicated Chef, the Flint Barns make for a beautiful getaway that is both family and dog friendly.
Christmas at Rathfinny
We can’t think of a more idyllic festive location that the grounds of Rathfinny. The Tasting Room’s are offering a 7-course festive tasting menu while The Flint Barns are offering a more casual back 3-course menu . Visit their website for more information.
