Somerset-based Aldwick Estate released its Woodlands Oak Bacchus

The limited-edition Woodlands Oak is a white wine made from 100% Bacchus grapes and is a rich, medium-bodied wine with a floral nose and a complexity of flavours – tropical fruit, honeysuckle and grapefruit, the winery said. 

This crowning success recognises 33 years of masterful farm diversification for a business, which now embraces a well-established vineyard, an award-winning wedding venue and tours, tastings and conferences.  

All parts of the business have seen strong growth in recent years. Sales over the past year were 50% higher than their pre-covid level, with visitor numbers increasing for both tours/tastings and weddings.  

Managing director, Sandy Luck, said: “The business really does seem to have come into its own over the last few years with more focus on the synergy between the vineyard and the venue.  

“We get such wonderful feedback from our visitors, whether they have been on a vineyard tour experience or have spent the evening with friends and family enjoying a private party in the venue, drinking the wine that has been produced onsite.  

“Having my own wine behind the bar, is a real bonus and I believe is what makes Aldwick Estate that little bit more special. 

“Last year we added additional accommodation and a new luxury lodge overlooking the vineyard, so that more visitors can stay and enjoy what’s on offer. It’s the attention to detail and the friendly family feel that I believe sets us apart.” 

Four-generation vineyard

The family-owned Aldwick Court Farm expanded into wine production in 2008 when it created its first vineyard in Homefield. In 2010, a second vineyard was planted in the hillside field, Woodlands. Aldwick now boasts 4.59 hectares of vines and six grape varieties.  

Following the Defra grant, also in 2010, a new visitor centre and function room were completed as an adjunct to the vineyards.  

After the sudden demise of the business’s leading family entrepreneur, Chris Watts, in 2011, sister Sandy Luck picked up the baton to continue to realise his long-term vision for the farm.  

This year they harvested their first Seyval Blanc and Early Pinot Noir from Homefield to make a well-received Sparkling Blush, released in October 2013.  

Rebranded in 2018 to Aldwick Estate, it now produces a full range of wines, from sparkling and rose to whites and reds. 

Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy vineyard tours and tastings to enhance knowledge and understanding of what it takes to produce national and international award winning wine.  

As a fourth-generation custodian of the family business, Mrs Luck said that she aims to keep it secure and profitable, hopefully to eventually pass it on to one of her children. 

Read more vine news.