Summer is one of the most rewarding times to visit Chapel Down. With long daylight hours, green vineyards stretching across the Kent countryside, and a full calendar of tastings and tours, the estate offers a clear view into the world of modern English winemaking.
Located in Tenterden, in the heart of Kent, Chapel Down is England's leading wine producer. A summer visit allows you to experience our vineyards at their most vibrant, learn about how our wines are crafted, and taste a selection of bottles that are currently available from our collection.
Here is what you can expect when you visit Chapel Down during the summer months.
Walking Through the Vineyards
One of the highlights of a summer visit is the opportunity to walk among the vines. During this time of year, the vineyard is in full growth. The vines are carefully trained and managed to ensure optimal fruit development, and visitors can see first-hand the work that goes into producing high-quality English wine.
Our tours guide you through the growing cycle, explaining how the Kent climate, chalk-rich soils and vineyard management techniques influence the final character of the wine. Seeing the landscape in person gives context to every bottle, whether it is Chapel Down Brut, Chapel Down Rosé or one of our still wines such as Bacchus 2024 or Chardonnay 2023.
Guided Wine Tastings
A summer visit would not be complete without a tasting. Our guided tastings introduce guests to a curated selection of wines that are currently available on our website.
Sparkling options often include Chapel Down Brut and Chapel Down Rosé, both made using the Traditional Method. Guests may also taste Rosé Reserve 2021, which offers a more structured sparkling option.
Still wines such as Bacchus 2024, Flint Dry 2024, Chardonnay 2023 and English Rosé 2025 showcase the diversity of English viticulture. Each tasting session focuses on explaining grape varieties, winemaking techniques and the role of the Kent terroir.
For those interested in premium still expressions, Kit's Coty Chardonnay 2023 highlights single vineyard craftsmanship and careful production.
Tastings are designed to be informative and accessible, whether you are new to wine or have an established interest in English bottles.
The Estate Shop
The Chapel Down shop is open seven days a week and offers visitors the chance to purchase wines directly from the estate. During summer, many guests choose to take home bottles to enjoy in the garden or share at seasonal gatherings.
Available products include single bottles of Chapel Down Brut, Rosé, Bacchus 2024, Flint Dry 2024, Chardonnay 2023 and English Rosé 2024. Gift options such as the Personalised Brut and Gift Box, and Personalised Rosé in Gift Box are also available for those looking to mark a special occasion.
If you prefer variety, curated cases such as the Sparkling Best Sellers case, the Award Winners Case and the Premium Stills Mixed Case provide a ready-made selection. These cases are ideal for summer entertaining and can also be delivered nationwide if you prefer to have them shipped.
Informal Visits and Self-Guided Experiences
In addition to formal tours, visitors are welcome to explore the estate informally. Many guests choose to enjoy a glass of wine in the outdoor areas, take in the vineyard views and experience the setting at their own pace.
Summer is a great time to visit. The landscape is at its most open and inviting, and the atmosphere reflects the balance between agricultural precision and hospitality that defines Chapel Down.
A Connection to English Winemaking
A visit to Chapel Down offers more than a tasting. It provides context for the growth of English sparkling wine and still wine production. By seeing the vineyards, winery and shop in person, visitors gain a deeper understanding of what makes English wine distinct.
Our location in Kent plays a central role in shaping the wines we produce. The combination of climate, soil and experience allows us to create bottles that stand confidently on the international stage while remaining rooted in their English origin.
Whether you are discovering English wine for the first time or returning to explore new releases, a summer visit offers insight into every step of the process.
Planning Your Visit
We recommend booking tours in advance during the summer months, as availability can be limited. Comfortable footwear is advised for walking through the vineyard, and guests should allow time to enjoy both the guided elements and the estate shop.
For those travelling by train, Headcorn station is approximately twenty minutes away by car, while Ashford International is around thirty minutes away. Visitors are advised to pre-book taxis due to limited availability in the local area.
Final Thoughts
A summer visit to Chapel Down brings together vineyard views, winemaking insight and the opportunity to taste a range of wines currently available from our collection. From Chapel Down Brut and Rosé to Bacchus 2024, Flint Dry 2024 and Kit's Coty Chardonnay 2023, each bottle reflects the work you will see in the vineyard and winery.
Whether you are planning a day trip in Kent or looking to deepen your understanding of English wine, Chapel Down offers a welcoming and informative experience during the summer season.
We look forward to welcoming you to the estate.
