Danbury – Lark Hill Vineyard

About Danbury – Lark Hill Vineyard

Danbury Lark Hill Vineyard is an exciting new addition to Essex's growing reputation as a serious English wine producing county. Located in the village of Danbury near Chelmsford in Essex, this relatively young vineyard represents the latest chapter in England's remarkable wine renaissance. The vineyard was officially established in 2024, making it one of the newest entries in the UK's wine landscape, yet it arrives with clear ambitions to produce exceptional still wines that showcase the potential of Essex terroir.

The vineyard spans 6.30 hectares of carefully tended vines, planted with the classic Burgundian varieties that have proven so successful in cool climate winemaking regions. Chardonnay forms the backbone of the plantings, chosen for its versatility and ability to express the subtle characteristics of the local soil and microclimate. Complementing this white variety is Pinot Noir, the celebrated grape behind some of the world's most revered still wines, which thrives in the careful growing conditions that Essex can provide during a long, measured ripening season.

As part of the wider Danbury Ridge estate, this vineyard benefits from the expertise and vision of a team committed to quality over quantity. The decision to focus on still wines rather than the sparkling varieties that dominate much of English wine production reflects a specific philosophy about what this particular corner of Essex does best. The limited production from these relatively modest plantings ensures that every decision in the vineyard and winery receives the attention it deserves.

While Danbury Lark Hill Vineyard is not currently open to visitors for tours or tastings, its proximity to Chelmsford and excellent transport links to London make it an increasingly relevant destination for those interested in discovering where their English wine comes from. The vineyard contributes to Essex's emerging status as a noteworthy wine producing area within the broader East Anglia wine region, joining a select group of estates that are helping to define what English still wines can achieve.