Nestled in the gently rolling landscape of Sussex lies a treasure trove for wine enthusiasts that boasts a selection of remarkable wineries, truly capturing the essence of the region's viticulture. For hundreds of years, the temperate maritime climate has fostered a rich history of agriculture. However, the real revolution began some forty years ago when a younger, business-savvy generation began developing the vibrant culture around winemaking and tasting as we know it today. Nowadays, the area is home to about 140 vineyards spread across the entire county (the largest concentration in England) with some of the most innovative vineyards and wineries in the world.

The Sussex climate offers mild temperatures and a longer growing season. With unpredictable UK weather growing grapes is undoubtedly challenging but this is mitigated by ample sunshine that is conducive to its cultivation along with the same mineral-rich limestone soil typically found in Champagne, which naturally imparts a unique character to the terroir. It is these unique circumstances that create an environment best suited for sparkling wines. The varieties that thrive here include the three classic ‘Champagne’ varieties – Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay, however exceptional still whites and even reds and rosés are now being produced too.

As the industry grows, more and more businesses pop up every year, each one contributing to a rich tapestry of winemaking excellence while working towards a common goal; to create the most inspiring products possible. A huge part of the success story has been that most of these wineries offer not just tastings but the opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the culture and craftsmanship of winemaking. So if you’re visiting the historic cobbled streets of Rye or the local stunning beaches, you should consider embarking on a delightful wine-tasting journey too - just like we have!

The rustic charm of the setting perfectly complements the grounded, nurturing spirit of Oxney Organic Estate leaving visitors enchanted and inspired by their visit. As you wander through the vineyard, Oxney’s commitment to sustainability becomes evident in every aspect of the operations. The knowledgeable owner passionately narrates the journey from grape to glass, educating guests on their environmentally conscious and manual methods which influence the flavors that dance within each bottle. Take a moment to enjoy the serene ambiance of the tasting room and indulge in their beautifully crafted organic wines, each sip embodying the essence of the estate's dedication to eco-friendly winemaking. 

Another great option near Rye is Chapel Down, which stands as a beacon of English winemaking prowess, blending tradition with cutting-edge techniques with its renowned, award-winning sparkling. Similarly, Gusbourne Estate is another gem, a quintessential English winemaker, focusing on producing premium sparkling wines that epitomize the region's unique terroir.

Going against the grain, Tillingham never fails to surprise us with their fantastic creations and gorgeous architecture of the hotel, winery, and restaurant. The winery stands as a testament to a seamless fusion of traditional winemaking techniques with avant-garde experimentation. Set within a historic farmstead, this winery embodies a philosophy rooted in biodynamic practices and minimal intervention with amphora-aged wines to natural wines fermented on skins, offering an unusual array of flavors.

While Rye boasts exceptional wineries, it’s important to note that you can extend the experience beyond wine. We could not fail to mention Curious Brewery, the award-winning brewery uses Bacchus wine yeast, which echoes the notes of some of the country’s finest wines. Located in Ashford, they offer a refreshing alternative to wine tasting and invite patrons to discover the artistry behind their premium brews. A tour of Curious Brewery unveils the meticulous process behind their production with a fabulous dining experience in their contemporary restaurant overlooking operations. A hub for relaxation and socializing, the atmosphere of their taproom invites visitors to savor their finely crafted beverages, creating an unforgettable experience for both beer aficionados and curious newcomers. 

To summarize, Rye's wine-tasting landscape presents a wine experience woven with diverse flavors, sustainable practices, and unwavering passion. Whether you're drawn to the organic allure of Oxney, the innovative spirit of Tillingham, or the brewing finesse of Curious Brewery, each destination promises an immersive journey into the artistry required to produce these incredible products. We are so grateful to have this experience on our doorstep to our table. 

As we’re getting ready for the holiday season, we thought it’d be the best time to share some of our favorites that would make an excellent gift for a dinner party with your friends or loved ones. DOMstay’s Christmas selection for a very merry time includes : 

Oxney Organic Cuvee Magnum - www.oxneyestate.com

Oxney Organic Chardonnay - www.oxneyestate.com

Gusbourne - Blanc de blanc - www.gusbourne.com

Curious Pilsner - www.curiousbrewery.com

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