Discover Crouch Ridge Vineyard in Essex

Crouch Ridge vineyards were planted with 3 classic cool climate grape varieties, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. These varietals are suited to the climate, soil and aspect at Crouch Ridge Estate in the heart of the Crouch Valley Region. The characteristics of the area, ‘the terroir’, define their fine wines, helping to make them balanced and unique. Chardonnay & Pinot Noir, our two noble Champagne varieties, were chosen specifically to produce top-quality English Sparkling wines. Our Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes are also grown to make our popular fine Single Estate Still wines.

They opened their Wine Barn in June 2019, where they showcase their fine wines. You can sample wine before buying from their Shop or enjoy a wine tasting experience.

They say “come for the wine, stay for the view” as the raised terrace outside the Wine Barn allows visitors to enjoy the views of the Vineyard and Crouch Valley countryside overlooking the River. It is a lovely place to sit and relax with friends and family with a glass of local Crouch Ridge wine or cup of coffee; the on-site café serves refreshments. Daily specials are prepared by our chef to complement their wines.

The on-site Wine Barn and Terrace offers indoor and outdoor seating areas serving drinks, sharing boards & afternoon teas.

Their Chef and team have designed the Cellar Menu to complement Crouch Ridge Sparkling and Still wines using seasonal and fresh produce. Our sharing boards include fish and shellfish from their local fisherman, local meat, poultry and vegetables from our local farmers. English Cheeses from English Dairy Farmers, Jams and Chutneys from their local Fruit Farmers and Herbs from local Sensory herb gardens.

Their Monthly five course Tasting Evenings and Private Dining Experiences are very popular, pairing our wines with seasonal dishes.

As part of your unique experience at Crouch Ridge Estate, why not spoil yourself with an overnight stay overlooking the Crouch Ridge Vineyards? To truly appreciate what the vineyard has to offer, why not book a bespoke private Vineyard tour, wine tasting or a Sparkling afternoon tea, to name a few of the unique experiences on offer.

Enjoy The Sommelier’s Selection – A Grand Day Out at Crouch Ridge: Discover, Taste, and Dine Among the Vines

A grand tour and tasting at Crouch Ridge is more than a day out — it’s a celebration of English wine, landscape, and hospitality. Whether you’re treating a friend, celebrating a special occasion, or simply curious to explore Essex’s most exciting wine country, our team at Crouch Ridge welcomes you with open arms and full glasses.

Shimmering on the sunlit slopes overlooking the River Crouch, the wine terrace and vineyard at Crouch Ridge offer more than just the opportunity to taste exceptional English wines — we promise a grand tour for the senses. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, a visit to our award-winning vineyard in the heart of the Crouch Valley is an experience to savour. You will be taken on a guided, gentle walk around the Vineyard learning about the growing season of the vines and wine making process. The tour follows the natural grass paths through the Vineyard and afterwards, there will be a fun tutored wine tasting session of three Crouch Ridge wines either in the Wine Barn or on the Terrace.

Begin Your Journey: The Grand Tour: from Vine to Wine

Step into the vines and immerse yourself in the story of Crouch Ridge. Led by Ross, the vineyard tour takes you on a journey through the gently undulating rows of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris grapes. Learn about the unique microclimate of the Crouch Valley — one of the driest and warmest regions in the UK — and discover how its fertile clay and gravel soils, coupled with long sunlit days, make it the perfect terroir for producing exceptional still wines.

From the pruning of the vines to the delicate art of harvesting, every step is a celebration of craftsmanship and care. You’ll explore what happens to our grapes in the wineries where tradition meets innovation and see how our grapes are transformed into elegant expressions of Essex terroir.

Taste the Terroir: A Trio of Still Wines

No visit to Crouch Ridge is complete without a guided tasting, and the estate’s still wine selection offers a perfect snapshot of what makes this vineyard so special. Amongst some of the wines featured on our Grand Tours this year are our:

Chardonnay 2022 – A refined English take on the classic, with ripe stone fruit, citrus blossom and a whisper of oak. This wine is beautifully balanced and full of poise — a wine that truly reflects the subtle richness of the vineyard.

Premium Rosé 2022– Delicately salmon-pink and summer in a glass. Notes of wild strawberries, raspberries, and a hint of rose petal make this rosé a refreshing, elegant companion to any sunny day.

Pinot Noir 2020 – Light and silky, with red cherry and soft spice on the nose, and a palate that dances with freshness and finesse. A quintessentially English expression of this noble grape.

Each wine is served with insights from the Sommelier team, making the tasting both enjoyable and educational — a chance to deepen your appreciation of the land in every glass.

Stay a While: Lunch with a View

After your tour and tasting, settle in for a leisurely lunch at the Crouch Ridge Wine Barn — a relaxed, sophisticated space with sweeping views across the vineyard and the river beyond. Enjoy locally sourced, seasonal dishes designed to pair beautifully with the estate wines, whether you’re in the mood for a light charcuterie board, a fresh salad, a pizza, one of our specials or a more indulgent Afternoon Tea.

Sit back with a glass of your favourite wine from the tasting or try their award winning sparkling wine, breathe in the vineyard air, and take your time. There’s no rush here — just rolling vines, good food, and the gentle rhythm of vineyard life. Come for the wines, stay for the view.