In 1991 Will Davenport planted 5 acres of vines at Horsmonden in Kent, while simultaneously working for a Hampshire vineyard and, unintentionally, this became the beginning of a life-long business as a wine producer.
26 years later the vineyards now make up 24 acres, grown on 5 parcels of land, 9 grape varieties and a multitude of soil types and micro-climates. The vineyards are mostly at Horsmonden in Kent, with a smaller vineyard next to the winery at Rotherfield, East Sussex.
Will was always a keen supporter of organic farming and in 2000 he made the decision to convert all the vines and winery to organic systems, certified by the Soil Association.
The 2014 newly released, is made from 50% Chardonnay, 26% Pinot Noir and 24% Pinot Meunier. With nearly 5 years maturing in the bottle on lees, it has plenty of yeast character combined with the surprisingly youthful fruit. This is a wine that will develop further over the long term but is already starting to show some delicious flavours and complexity.
Fantastic with salt & vinegar laden fish & chips (don’t forget the peas!) – vegan alternative is just as good, lobster in tarragon butter or chicken with mayo, basil & capers
Vegan
