Fax: 01580 291933
Email: info@biddendenvineyards.co.uk
Web: www.biddendenvineyards.com

Vineyards

The present vineyards were established by the Barnes family in 1969. Planting that began with one third of an acre has now reached 22 acres. Visitors walking through the vineyard will note that the site chosen is a gentle south facing slope in a shallow sheltered valley.

The varieties planted are mainly of Germanic origin, including Ortega, Huxelrebe, Bacchus, Schonburger and Reichensteiner. These together with Pinot Noir, Gamay and Dornfelder enable the vineyards to produce a variety of wines, all of which are fragrant with different characteristics.

Wines

White, red, rose and quality sparkling wines are produced at the vineyards. The Ortega grape accounts for almost 50% of the vineyard and produces Biddenden's most distinctive and aware winning wine. It is a medium dry wine with soft fruity flavours. Great effort is made to ensure that the estate wines are of the highest quality, which is reflected by the number of awards consistently received.

Biddenden Village

The vineyards are situated 1½ miles from the lovely old Wealden village of Biddenden with its High Street flanked by half-timbered houses once used for the weaving of cloth, and its 13th century great stone church. The legend of the Biddenden Maids is world famous and the charity in their name still exists today.

The area affords a great variety of attractions for both young and old to make a splendid family day or week away. These include historic gardens, castles and steam railways.

Ciders

What could be more natural in such a traditional apple growing area than to produce cider. Made from the juice of freshly pressed culinary and dessert apples, our string still ciders are made either sweet, medium or dry and are an excellent alternative to wine.

Our Monk’s Delight cider, with pure honey and spices is ready to mull and is ideal for summer barbecues and winter parties. Connoisseurs of cider will also enjoy our Special Reserve, a dark, rich cider matured in oak whisky casks with is 13% vol.

Our legendary ciders have also won a number of awards including the prestigious CAMRA cider of the year.

Apple Juice

Our clean, non-carbonated apple juice is also produced from locally grown apples. Totally natural with no added sugar, it is ideal for children and drivers.

Visiting the Vineyard

Admission and tastings are FREE. Visitors are welcome to stroll around the 22 acres of vines set in a 70 acre estate, enjoying the tranquillity of the Kentish countryside.

There are two routes marked out around the vineyard for you to follow at your leisure. Dogs are welcome on a lead.

Teas and coffees are available throughout the year and ice creams during the summer months

Guided tours

Advance bookings are required. The visit includes a vineyard walk, winery talk and tastings, including a complimentary glass of wine.

Tour prices on application. Ask about our joint tours in conjunction with other local attractions. Coaches welcome for coffee stops and self-guided tours (subject to prior notice). Ploughman’s lunches, cream teas and evening meals are available for groups by prior booking.

Free guided tours

For private individuals, offered on selected Saturday mornings, commencing at 10am. A chance to learn about the vineyard and taste our wines, ciders and apple juice. Arrive before 9.45am for a free cup of coffee. Pre-booking essential.

Easter Bunny Hunt

Easter Sunday: Fun for all the family at Biddenden’s fabulous Bunny Hunt. A chance for children to explore the Vineyard, chasing clues with a chocolate reward at the end. Adults can enter our “Star Trek” competition for a chance to wine a bottle of cider.

Food Fair – June

“Taste the best of produced in Kent”. Join us at our annual charity event to taste and buy the best Kentish food and drink direct from the producer. Admission is free. Ploughman’s lunches available.

Vineyard Shop

Our shop stocks a selection of local and regional products, including jams, honey, chutneys and beers, as well as our own wines, ciders and apple juice.

Christmas Gift Shop

Visit us in December when our shop is full of a wide range of gift ideas. Hampers and gift trays made to order with the items of your choice

Opening times

Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm
Sunday & Bank Holidays 11am – 5pm
Closed: Sundays in January and February and from noon on 24 December – 1 January inclusive.