As the English wine industry anticipates a record 2018 harvest after a hot summer, the team at Hush Heath Estate is ready to unveil its major expansion in Staplehurst, Kent. The boutique, family-owned company is beginning a new chapter in a journey to explore and share the wonders of wine and tourism in this country.
Doubling the size of the previous facilities at the Estate, the development also includes a new shop and an upstairs terrace bar. During the open weekend, visitors are invited between 10am and 5pm to explore The View and enjoy complimentary talks and masterclasses with Producer Richard Balfour-Lynn, Winemaker Victoria Ash and Vineyard Manager Catherine Smith. Throughout both days, visitors will be able to enjoy live jazz music, Hush Heath wine tastings, local cheese sampling and winery tours – all courtesy of the Estate team.
For the first time, visitors will be able to purchase sharing platters, taste English wines, and enjoy the scenery across the immaculate 400-acre Estate. Exclusively for the open weekend, a complementary shuttle bus service will be transporting guests on the 10-minute ride between Hush Heath Estate and Staplehurst train station (regularly from 10am to 5pm). The winery’s local station is less than 45 minutes away from London Bridge. Everyone wishing to book a free ticket to Hush Heath Estate’s Open Weekend (22nd-23rd September 2018) should visit www.hushheath.com
Speaking about the launch, Producer Richard Balfour-Lynn comments: “This is more than developing a new building to house our winery – it’s been a year in the making and a labour of love; what we are creating at Hush Heath Estate is a showcase to allow visitors to share in the exciting journey of English wines.”
“Our doors remain very much open to welcome visitors from around the world to Hush Heath Estate. This is a charming destination for a quick walk or a full guided tour and we are open seven days a week, complete with complimentary tastings for those who want to find out what English wine is all about.
“Visitors to Hush Heath Estate discover a ‘hidden gem,’ with the beautiful vineyards and apple orchards surrounded by ancient oak woodlands, and wildlife conservation at its heart. We want to share this with visitors whilst giving them the opportunity to taste and discover our wines and ciders in our fabulous new tasting room.”
