English Wine Week & The History of English Wine

What is English Wine Week?

Each year, English Wine Week shines a well-deserved spotlight on the thriving world of English wine. It’s a national celebration of the vineyards, producers, and winemakers behind the bottles, and more importantly, it’s a week long excuse to have a glass or two. From the 21st to the 29th of June, wine lovers are encouraged to try something a bit more local.

The History of English Wine

When you think of great wine regions, your mind might leap to Bordeaux, Tuscany, or the Napa Valley. But nestled in the rolling hills of southern England is one of the most exciting emerging wine regions in the world. English wine is having a moment, but its story goes back much further than you might expect.

Roman Roots to Monastic Vines

Wine in England dates back nearly two thousand years. The Romans, who conquered Britain in AD 43, brought with them their love of viticulture. Archaeological evidence shows that vineyards were planted in several locations, especially in the south of England. These early wines were likely rustic and used for religious or ceremonial purposes.

By the 12th century, thanks to monasteries and royal demand, wine production was thriving. But colder climates and the rise of French imports saw English winemaking all but vanish by the 1400s.

Dormant Centuries

For several hundred years, England remained more a consumer than a producer of wine. The country became famous for its role in importing, blending, and ageing wine, but the idea of growing grapes on English soil was mostly forgotten.

It wasn’t until the mid-20th century that English wine began to stir again. In the 1950s, a handful of pioneering growers started experimenting with German grape varieties like Müller-Thurgau and Bacchus, believing they could thrive in England’s cooler climate.

By the 1970s and 80s, small vineyards had started to appear, particularly in Kent, Sussex, and Surrey, laying the groundwork for something bigger.

The Sparkling Breakthrough

The true turning point came in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Growers began planting classic Champagne varieties like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier in the chalky soils of southern England, which closely resemble those of Champagne itself. The cool climate, once a challenge, turned out to be perfect for creating high-acidity grapes ideal for sparkling wine.

English sparkling wine started winning major international awards, including our Balfour Brut Rosé, which became the first English Wine to win a gold medal and the trophy at the International Wine Challenge.

The Rise of English Wine

Once considered a curiosity, English wine has evolved into a respected and award-winning category in its own right. Thanks to our cooler climates, long growing season, and diverse soil types, England (especially the south-east) is now producing still and sparkling wines that stand shoulder to shoulder with some of the best in the world.

Since planting our first vines on the Hush Heath Estate back in 2002, we’ve grown from a pioneering idea to a thriving estate at the heart of the English wine movement. Our wines are deeply rooted in the Kent countryside, shaped by its clay-rich soils, gentle slopes, and cool climate that gives our wines their signature character.

Why You Should Drink Balfour?

Our land has been cared for by the same hands for three generations, with knowledge and passion passed down over the years. This connection to place and heritage means we treat every vine and every vintage with genuine care. Our small-batch philosophy ensures that quality is never compromised, allowing us to focus on character, detail, and craftsmanship.

The slower ripening season of England allows for vibrant acidity and delicate flavours, giving our wines a signature style that you won’t find anywhere else.

Our Introduction to English Wine Case

Our ’Introduction to English Wine’ mixed case captures this excitement, bringing together six standout bottles that celebrate the rich variety of English winemaking.

For English Wine Week 2025, we’re offering this case of wine for just £117 (was £180)! Offer ends 29/06/2025.

The case includes:

• Nannette’s Rosé 2024
• Luke’s Pinot Noir 2023
• Liberty’s Bacchus 2023
• Skye’s Chardonnay 2023
• Leslie’s Reserve Rosé
• Leslie’s Reserve Brut

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