Restaurant Brighton's guide to
Sussex Vineyards
Our top picks
Welcome to our Sussex vineyard guide. Sussex is home to some of the most outstandingly beautiful and prestigious vineyards in the country. English wine making is a flourishing industry, watched eagerly by experts around the globe and, while Sussex sparkling wine has been making waves for some years, local vineyards are now branching out to produce some exceptionally good still wine. Exciting times…
Many of the vineyards offer fantastic extras to visitors; vineyard picnics, street food pop ups, vineyard tours, tutored wine tastings events and more. Some are also home to very fine Sussex restaurants. There is simply no better, or more lovely, way to buy English wine than directly from the vineyards. Whether you’re based in Brighton, or a visitor to the city, you will be spoiled for choice as there are dozens within easy reach. So what are you waiting for?!
You may also like our guide to wine bars in Brighton and Hove.
Discover the charm of Leonardslee Family Vineyards, a captivating Sussex estate renowned for its immersive wine experiences. Sample their exceptional wines and delve into the art of winemaking against a backdrop of scenic vineyards. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, Leonardslee hosts diverse wine events. Enjoy picnics amidst the vineyards or join their exclusive wine club for year-round access. With a commitment to elegant, expressive wines that showcase Sussex’s unique terroir, Leonardslee invites you to indulge in delightful tastings and immerse yourself in the essence of this prestigious vineyard.
Discover the charm of The Secret Vineyard, a new Sussex vineyard that offers an enchanting escape. Immerse yourself in their wine-focused events, from vineyard tours to retreats, where you can savour their exceptional wines.
Extend your experience and stay in their elegant accommodations, surrounded by the vineyard’s beauty, take your pick from the stylish ÖÖD House on the lake, the cosy country cottage or the eco shepherd’s hut on ancient woodland.
Gusbourne Wine, renowned for their exceptional English sparkling wines, presents an exquisite selection that captures the essence of the Kent countryside. With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality, Gusbourne produces wines of unparalleled elegance and complexity. From their flagship Brut Reserve to their vibrant Rosé, each bottle tells a story of craftsmanship and terroir. Immerse yourself in their world by embarking on one of their enlightening vineyard tours, where you can witness the winemaking process firsthand and discover the secrets behind their acclaimed wines. Delight in the sparkling beauty of Gusbourne and experience the artistry of English winemaking. Gusbourne are sponsors of the 2023 BRAVO best wine list.
Albourne Wine Estate, a captivating winery positioned in the scenic Sussex countryside just 8 miles from Brighton. Explore their vineyards and cellar during their engaging wine tours, picnics or supper clubs, where you can learn about their sustainable winemaking practices and taste their exceptional wines. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Albourne Estate prioritises organic and biodynamic methods to create Sussex wines that are a true reflection of the terroir. Join their wine club to savour their latest releases and exclusive offerings, becoming a part of their passionate community of wine enthusiasts. Discover the beauty of Albourne Wine Estate and indulge in their remarkable wines. The Albourne Tasting Room is open every Friday (4pm – 9pm) Saturday (11am – 6pm) & Sunday (11am – 5pm)
Nyetimber | West Sussex Vineyards
Nyetimber English Sparkling Wine, crafted in the scenic Sussex vineyards, epitomises excellence in English winemaking. With a passion for producing world-class sparkling wines, Nyetimber has established itself as a leader in the industry. Their meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality result in exquisite bottles that rival the finest Champagnes. From their classic cuvées to their limited-edition releases, Nyetimber offers a taste of luxury in every sip. Embark on a journey through the vineyards of Sussex with Nyetimber, where tradition, expertise, and a passion for exceptional sparkling wines converge. Read about the Nyetimber experiences.
Stopham, Pulborough Vineyard
Experience the rustic charm of Stopham Vineyard in Pulborough. With their passion for winemaking, Stopham produces exceptional wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir.
Embark on a captivating vineyard tour, where you can stroll through the vine rows, learn about their sustainable practices, and witness the winemaking process.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the vineyard, surrounded by picturesque landscapes. To enhance your visit, make sure to book a tour in advance through their website or check out their portfolio of wines online.
Wiston Estate Winery
Located at Washington in West Sussex, Wiston Estate Winery is a captivating destination that combines exceptional wines, exquisite dining, and a rich heritage. Explore their story, rooted in family tradition and a deep connection to the land. Embark on their enlightening wine tours, where you can discover the winemaking process and taste their award-winning sparkling wines. Indulge in a culinary journey at The Chalk restaurant, showcasing the finest local ingredients paired with Wiston’s exceptional wines. From vine to glass, Wiston Estate Winery offers a complete experience that celebrates the artistry of winemaking and the beauty of the Sussex countryside.
One of our stand-out Sussex vineyards on the South Downs, Rathfinny Wine Estate is a family owned Sussex wine estate and is perfectly positioned on south facing slopes. With their exceptional Sussex wines (and gin and vermouth) produced from their own vineyards, visitors can indulge in wine tastings that showcase the estate’s craftsmanship and learn more about their B Corp status, low-intervention techniques and their terroir. For those seeking a complete getaway, Rathfinny Flint Barns provide a luxurious overnight stay amidst the stunning vineyards in Cradle Valley, offering a tranquil retreat. To complement the wine experience, their on-site Michelin featured Sussex restaurant ‘The Tasting Room’ serves delectable dishes from head chef Chris Bailey paired with their wines, creating a seamless gastronomic journey.