Berkshire

Berkshire has established itself as one of the most exciting counties for English wine production, with 16 vineyards cultivating 53.4 hectares under vine across the beautiful Thames and Chilterns region. The county's winemaking heritage dates back to 1976, making it one of the older wine-producing areas in England and showcasing decades of accumulated expertise in cool-climate viticulture.

The Berkshire wine scene benefits from a diverse range of grape varieties that thrive in the county's specific terroir. Pinot Noir leads the plantings, reflecting the global popularity of this Burgundian grape for producing elegant English sparkling wines and still reds. Precoce and Meunier support the classic sparkling wine varieties, while Chardonnay provides the backbone for sophisticated English sparkling wines that rival the finest Champagnes. Solaris, Seyval Blanc and Bacchus contribute aromatic whites that showcase the vibrant freshness of English wine, with Reich adding further complexity to the county's diverse portfolio.

Of the 16 Berkshire vineyards, four estates welcome visitors for tastings, cellar tours and purchases, making the county an accessible destination for English wine enthusiasts. Whether you are planning a dedicated wine tour or seeking a charming afternoon out in the countryside, Berkshire vineyards offer an engaging blend of winemaking tradition, rural scenery and quality English wine.

The Thames and Chilterns region provides an exceptionally picturesque backdrop for wine tourism, with many estates nestled in rolling countryside that is as rewarding to explore as the wines themselves. Visitors can sample everything from crisp Bacchus white wines to richly flavoured Pinot Noir still wines, alongside the county's acclaimed traditional method sparkling wines that have helped put English wine on the world stage.

Berkshire's combination of established winemaking heritage, diverse grape varieties and welcoming cellar doors makes it a rewarding destination for anyone interested in discovering the quality and variety of modern English wine. Use the ukwineries.co.uk directory to explore all 16 Berkshire vineyards and find the perfect estate for your next English wine adventure.