English Wine

England was introduced to Vines back during the Roman Empire, in 43 BC Emperor Claudius began the conquest of the British Isles and with him, he brought along some vines and possibly introduced winemaking at the same time.

Heading forward to the 10th century, Vineyards were being planted and Wines were being produced off the side of Monasteries, mostly around the West Country and Central South regions of England.

The first Commercial English Winery was created in 1952 and is still in operation, and that is Hambledon vineyard.

The wine regions of England are mainly concentrated in Kent, East and West Sussex and Surrey, along with a growing number in East Anglia, although at this point in time, English Vines can be planted anywhere within England to produce English Wines or Sparkling Wines, all you need is the land to plant, and a winery with the necessary equipment to help craft and bottle your own blend.

The Main Grapes Grown In England Are:

• Chardonnay
• Pinot Noir
• Pinot Meunier
• Bacchus
• Ortega
• Seyval Blanc
• Reichensteiner
• Gewürztraminer
• Sauvignon Blanc
• Pinot Gris/Grigio
• Müller-Thurgau
• Madeleine Angevine
• Reichensteiner
• Schönburger
• Ortega

There are now around 1,000 vineyards across Great Britain, with over 4,000 hectares under vine.

If you’re looking for some English Sparkling Wines to try or visit, we’ve put together the most comprehensive list of English & Welsh Sparkling Wine Producers available online: Directory Of English And Welsh Sparkling Wine Producers