Hambledon Wine Estate

Hambledon Vineyard holds the distinguished position of being England's oldest commercial vineyard, established in 1952 by Major-General Sir Guy Salisbury-Jones. This pioneering Hampshire estate has been producing wine for over seven decades, witnessing and shaping the remarkable evolution of English viticulture from its earliest modern beginnings to today's thriving industry.

Hambledon Vineyard: Site and Grape Varieties

Nestled on the edge of the South Downs in Hambledon village, itself famous as the cradle of cricket, the vineyard enjoys exceptional growing conditions. The chalk-rich soils and south-facing slopes create a terroir ideally suited to producing world-class sparkling wine from the classic Champagne varieties. Ian Kellett acquired the vineyard in 1999 and has invested significantly in expanding and modernising the estate while honouring its historic legacy.

Hambledon's commitment to quality is evident in every bottle. Their sparkling wines have earned numerous accolades, reflecting the expertise built over decades of winemaking in this unique location. The estate's winemaking approach combines respect for traditional methods with modern innovation, ensuring each vintage expresses the authentic character of Hampshire terroir.

Visiting Hambledon Vineyard

The visitor experience at Hambledon has been thoughtfully developed to match the quality of the wines. A new Visitor Centre offers comprehensive tours and tastings that explore the estate's remarkable heritage and winemaking philosophy. The on-site restaurant provides fine dining opportunities paired with estate wines, while private dining options cater to special occasions.

For those wishing to deepen their wine knowledge, Hambledon offers WSET wine courses, providing professional-level education in their stunning vineyard setting. The cellar door shop stocks the full range of wines alongside merchandise and gift options.

Whether you're drawn by the history, the exceptional sparkling wines, or the beautiful South Downs setting, Hambledon Vineyard offers an experience that connects visitors with the very roots of modern English winemaking.