Rathfinny Wine Estate – Tasting Room
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.
Award-winning dining
The Tasting Room at Rathfinny opened in 2018 when they launched their first vintages of Sussex Sparkling Wines. The Tasting Rooms offers a dining experience of modern British cuisine paired perfectly with the estate’s wines. In 2020, after only two years of service, The Tasting Rooms was awarded a Michelin Plate.
Rathfinny Head Chef Chris Bailey.
Chris Bailey is Head Chef of Rathfinny Tasting Room and the Rathfinny Flint Barns, a luxurious bed and breakfast accommodation within the estate grounds. Chris and his team create a weekly changing menu that is ingredient and seasonally led. The menu celebrates the Tasting Room’s location in the Sussex countryside as well as wonderful produce from throughout the British Isles.
The Food at the Rathfinny Tasting Room
Lunch is served Wednesday to Sunday with options of two or three courses. Menus are seasonal and provide even frequent visitors with something new to try. Dining at the Tasting Room is an immersive experience as you drink wine from the surrounding countryside, viewable over the expansive terrace. The menu is specifically created using local produce to pair perfectly with the wines of the estate.
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
A “Click and collect” service is available from their Cellar Door shop and there is free delivery on cases of sparkling wine.
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.
Stunning venue, stunning food and stunning wine. An all-around fantastic experience with friendly staff. Visit during twilight for gorgeous views!