Adgestone Vineyard sits on the sunny south facing slopes of the Isle of Wight chalk downs near Brading. Established in 1968, it is one of the oldest commercial wine estates in England. The chalky soil and unique coastal microclimate provide excellent growing conditions for grape varieties such as Seyval Blanc, Reichensteiner, and Rondo, resulting in characterful cool climate wines.
What You Can Do
Visitors can take part in self guided audio tours that lead through the neat rows of vines and explain the annual cultivation cycle. The tasting room hosts daily sampling sessions where staff explain the profile of each wine. You can also visit the cool underground cellars to see where the bottles are stored and aged before release.
What They Offer
The estate produces a diverse selection of still and sparkling wines, including a unique blue sparkling wine made using natural flower extracts. Accommodation on site includes a modern two bedroom holiday cottage and several glamping yurts nestled among the vines. The estate also features a retail shop stocking their full range of wines and local island gifts.
Activities
Guests can enjoy quiet walks through the countryside or join the red squirrel trail which runs close to the property. During the summer months, the outdoor terrace hosts regular live music sessions. The lawns are equipped with giant outdoor games, providing a relaxed space to spend an afternoon outdoors.
Food to Eat
The outdoor terrace and cafe serve freshly prepared grazing boards. These platters feature award winning Isle of Wight cheeses, local charcuterie, olives, and artisan breads. Every item is selected to complement the crisp acidity of the estate white and sparkling wines, offering a simple yet delicious dining experience.
Why Visit
This estate combines historical significance with a relaxed island atmosphere. It offers a straightforward and informative look at English winemaking without any pretension, making it an excellent choice for a peaceful day trip or a weekend escape.
Review
The peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views of the downs make this estate a highly pleasant place to spend a sunny afternoon. The self guided tour is easy to follow, though some of the outdoor paths can be slightly uneven after rain. Overall, the friendly service and excellent sparkling wines ensure a memorable visit.