High Clandon Estate Vineyard is a distinguished winery located in the picturesque region of Sussex, England. Known for its exceptional sparkling wines and commitment to sustainable viticulture, the estate has gained recognition for its contributions to English winemaking. 

High Clandon Estate’s journey into winemaking began in the early 2000s. The estate was founded by the Goring family, who sought to leverage the favorable growing conditions of Sussex to produce high-quality sparkling wines. The decision to establish a vineyard was inspired by the success of English sparkling wines and the unique terroir of the region, which shares similarities with the Champagne region of France. The estate was established in 2002 with the goal of creating a premium English sparkling wine brand. Initial years involved significant investment in vineyard planting and infrastructure, with careful attention to soil quality and grape varieties.

High Clandon Estate follows traditional methods to produce its wines, reflecting the best practices of Champagne production. The estate is dedicated to quality and sustainability, ensuring that each bottle embodies the distinct character of Sussex. The estate uses the classic Champagne method, known as “Méthode Champenoise,” which involves primary fermentation in stainless steel tanks. A secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle, producing the signature bubbles of sparkling wine. The wine is aged on lees (dead yeast cells) for an extended period to enhance complexity and texture. After aging, the wine undergoes disgorgement, where the sediment is removed to ensure clarity and quality.

The estate is committed to sustainable viticulture and employs organic farming practices. This includes minimizing chemical inputs and enhancing soil health through natural methods. The estate also focuses on reducing its carbon footprint and promoting biodiversity within the vineyard.

The High Clandon Estate Winery is equipped with modern facilities that support both traditional and innovative winemaking techniques. The estate is situated on a south-facing slope with chalky soil, ideal for growing high-quality grapes. The vineyard’s layout and management practices are designed to optimize grape quality.

The estate offers guided tours of the vineyard and winery, where visitors can learn about the winemaking process and sample the estate’s wines. The tours provide insight into both the technical aspects of winemaking and the estate’s commitment to sustainability.

High Clandon Estate is renowned for its premium sparkling wines, which have received accolades for their quality and craftsmanship. The flagship sparkling wine is crafted from a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes. It is characterized by its crisp acidity, fine bubbles, and flavors of green apple, citrus, and brioche.

High Clandon Estate is actively involved in the local community, hosting events and participating in regional festivals. The estate also engages in educational initiatives to promote the appreciation of English wine as well as the thriving art scene within the area.

High Clandon Estate Vineyard represents a remarkable success story in English winemaking. With its commitment to traditional methods, sustainability, and high-quality production, the estate has established itself as a leading producer of English sparkling wines. Its rich history, innovative practices, and dedication to excellence make it a notable and exciting part of the Sussex wine landscape. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or a visitor to the region, High Clandon Estate offers a memorable experience and a taste of Sussex’s burgeoning wine culture.