Cottonworth produces high quality English sparkling wine.
Located in the heart of the Test Valley in Hampshire, Cottonworth is home to the Liddell family who have been farming there for four generations.
Over the last 10 years they have carefully selected 30 acres of prime vineyard sites for the production of Sparkling wine using Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. The south facing slopes, chalk soil and temperate microclimate ensure the best conditions for growing grapes of exceptional quality.
The chalky soil is a wonderful medium in which to plant vines for sparkling wine production, as it will drain very easily but keep just enough water for the vines to function at their best. Chalky soil is also poor in nutrients, which stresses the vines – helping to produce superior fruit. Gently stressing the vines is one of the key elements for producing great wine. If the vines are a little stressed, like a great artist or poet, they seem to react by producing a more interesting and complex result. Thus, along with the challenging climate, England is fast becoming an ideal place to grow great sparkling wines!
The vineyard shop is open from Thursday to Saturday between 10.00am and 4.00pm. Set in a delightful converted barn, the shop offers a fantastic choice of wines and other luxury products. Visitors are always welcome. Alternatively, to visit for a wine tasting and tour click here
THE VINE MAZE
People are always on the look out for a novel place to entertain, so Cottonworth decided to plant a Maze using their three grape varieties. The space in the centre of the Maze is large enough to erect a marquee or an impromptu stage, or even a few market stalls – great for parties.
TOURS & TASTING
Available most Fridays and Saturdays from 14th May to 29th August 2016, between 12.00 noon and 2.00pm, these tours are increasing in popularity every year.
Priced at £55 for two people, a guided tour of the vineyard and wine tasting is provided in the exclusive tasting room, followed by the delectable Winemakers’ Lunch.