Chapel Down is one of the largest and most prominent wineries in Kent, known for producing world-class sparkling and still wines. Led by winemaker Josh Donaghay-Spire, the winery has earned numerous accolades and achievements.
We’ve been proud supporters of Chapel Down for years and it’s been a pleasure sharing their incredible wines with Club Members at tastings. One of the leading wine producers in England, the winemaking team has extensive experience in crafting wines from cool climate regions, ensuring that their wines are of the highest quality and represent the best expression of England's terroir.
Chapel Down has earned prestigious partnerships, including being the official supplier to No 10 Downing Street and the official sparkling wine of the Oxford & Cambridge Boat Races. They were also the first English wine to be served at Ascot racecourse and featured in the London Stock Exchange's '1000 Companies to Inspire Britain' and the 'Cool Brands™ 2016/17' directory.
The Wine
The vineyards at Chapel Down are primarily located on the North Downs of Kent, with chalky soils and a warm, maritime climate similar to Champagne. They cultivate Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Bacchus grapes, resulting in wines with balanced acidity and rich fruit characters. Additionally, Chapel Down sources high-quality fruit from partner vineyards in Kent, Sussex, and Essex to produce wines with unique flavour profiles.
Highlights from across the range include the Pinot Noir Gin – a firm favourite here – alongside the epic Kit’s Coty Chardonnay. Head Wine Guru Tom enjoys nothing better than sneaking a bottle of this superstar into blind Burgundy tastings, and even Legendary chef Michel Roux Jr tweeted "in blind tastings more than one have been fooled in thinking it's a grand Burgundy. Honoured to have it on our tasting menu."
