Chapel Down

Chapel Down stands as England's leading wine producer, crafting award-winning sparkling and still wines from the heart of Kent's Garden of England. Based at their flagship estate in Tenterden, Chapel Down has played a pivotal role in changing international perceptions of English wine, proving that this relatively young wine region can compete with the world's finest.

Chapel Down: Site and Grape Varieties

The estate benefits from exceptional terroir, with vineyards planted on the chalky soils of the North Downs and Kent Downs. This same band of chalk that runs from the Paris Basin through to southern England provides ideal conditions for growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Bacchus grapes. The warm maritime climate and south-facing slopes nurture grapes that develop balanced acidity and rich fruit characters.

Chapel Down's winemaking philosophy combines traditional techniques with innovative approaches. Their world-class winemaking team brings extensive experience in sparkling wine and cool climate regions, resulting in elegant wines that express the unique characteristics of English terroir. The 'Discovery Series' showcases experimental plantings and modern winemaking practices, exploring the versatility of this exciting wine region.

The winery has established an impressive roster of partnerships, serving as the Official Sparkling Wine of the England & Wales Cricket Board, Official English Sparkling Wine of Ascot Racecourse and the Oxford & Cambridge Boat Race, and Official Supplier to the London Stock Exchange. These associations reflect the quality and prestige of Chapel Down wines.

Visiting Chapel Down

Visitors to Tenterden can experience daily tours and tastings that offer insights into viticulture and winemaking. The estate provides a welcoming environment to sample the range, from crisp Bacchus whites to complex traditional method sparkling wines. The visitor experience perfectly captures Chapel Down's values: grounded yet ambitious, proud of their achievements while continuously pioneering new possibilities in English wine.