Welcome to our monthly “Meet the Maker” series, where we spotlight the incredible suppliers that we work with at Bayley & Sage. This month’s feature is on Nutbourne Vineyards, read on to learn more about this Sussex winery!
Discover Nutbourne: A Pioneer in English Wine
Nestled in the heart of Sussex, Nutbourne Vineyards has been a trailblazer in the English wine industry since its inception. Originally planted in 1979 on what was once apple orchards, the site benefits from an ideal microclimate – south-facing slopes shielded by the South Downs, perfect for growing exceptional fruit.
Since 1991, the Gladwin family has nurtured these vines, producing wines that have graced Royal banquets, Livery Halls, and Guild feasts across London. Today, their wines can also be enjoyed in their own local & wild restaurants, bringing the vineyard’s legacy directly to the table.
From Heritage to Harvest: Crafting Nutbourne Wines
Nutbourne’s journey began with a focus on Germanic Riesling-style grape varieties, but over time, the vineyard has expanded to include classic French grapes, essential for crafting sparkling, red, and rosé wines. Today, their vines include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Blanc, alongside traditional English varieties like Bacchus, Reichensteiner, and Huxelrebe.
What makes Nutbourne truly special is its commitment to producing wines entirely on-site – a rarity for vineyards of this size in England. From grape to glass, every step of the process – pressing, fermenting, bottling, aging, and labelling – is handled with care at the estate. With 24 acres under vine, Nutbourne produces an impressive 50,000 bottles annually, ensuring that every sip reflects the vineyard’s unique terroir.
To maintain both heritage and younger vines, Nutbourne employs four distinct trellising systems:
- Geneva Double Curtain – Used for the oldest vines to enhance fruit production.
- Scott Henry – Ideal for sparkling wine grapes, optimising sun exposure.
- Vertical Shoot Positioning & Guyot – Classic systems ensuring healthy canopy management in England’s cool, humid climate.
Through a balance of tradition and innovation, Nutbourne continues to craft wines that embody the best of English viticulture.
Sussex Reserve: A True Taste of the Land
One of Nutbourne’s standout wines is Sussex Reserve, a beautifully balanced field blend of traditional Germanic grapes – Bacchus, Reichensteiner, and Huxelrebe – alongside Pinot Noir, which thrives in the vineyard’s greensand soil. The result? A wine that consistently reflects the unique terroir of the estate year after year. Sussex Reserve is our March wine of the month at Bayley & Sage and can be found in stores now!
Sussex Reserve: Pairing Suggestions
Sussex Reserve pairs wonderfully with everything from delicate white fish to spicy Asian cuisine, making it a go-to choice for a range of culinary experiences. It also works well with seasonal March produce such as:
- Sussex Wild Garlic – Perfect for aromatic sauces and soups.
- Chalk Valley Watercress – A peppery addition to salads and seafood dishes.
- Sussex Apples – Crisp, sweet, and ideal for desserts.
- Sussex Kale – A nutrient-rich green to complement hearty meals.
Nutbourne Vineyards is a testament to heritage, innovation, and sustainability, producing wines that truly embody the spirit of English winemaking. Whether you’re enjoying a glass at a royal banquet or simply from the comfort of your own home, every sip tells the story of this remarkable Sussex estate. Find it now at your local Bayley & Sage!