Wine in the Waveney Valley

East Anglia is one of the premier vine growing regions in the UK. The regions vineyards produce over half the Bacchus grown in Britain and a large proportion of Pinot Noir.

Here in the Waveney Valley we are home to 3 award-winning wine producers. Hours of sunshine and the lowest rainfall in England ensures we have the perfect conditions for viticulture – otherwise known as the cultivation and harvesting of grapes. Wine enthusiasts or beginners can enjoy a visit, regular events, guided tours and tastings at of all of the vineyards in the Waveney Valley.

Valley Farm Vineyard

At Valley Farm Vineyard based in Wissett, not far from Halesworth, the owners Elaine and Vanessa will teach you all about viticulture, wine production and the history of wine making. If you’re lucky, they will also throw in the odd oenology anecdote (you can look that one up!). Valley Farm specialise in producing white and rosé, sparkling white and sparkling blush. In 2016 they won gold at the UKVA Competition for their 2015 Madeleine Angevine.

The Vineyard is an 8 acre site with newly renovated vintage vines. Elaine and Vanessa are very proud of their 3000 vines which produce fine quality grapes. They can offer Tours and Tasting experiences and also events by arrangement. For more information call 07867009967 or visit www.valleyfarmvineyards.co.uk

Chet Valley Vineyard.

Not far from Loddon in Bergh Apton, John Hemmant and his wife Bridget are growing several different types of grapes that are used for making premium award-winning English Sparkling wines at the Chet Valley Vineyard.

Enjoy a ‘Winemakers Tour and Tasting’ personally led by John who was one of the first to plant a vineyard in Norfolk back in the 1990s. With his background in chemistry, farming and the arts he will inspire you with stories of making wine and travels to wine regions. The tour includes a taste of up to 5 wines accompanied by local Waveney Valley cheese and charcuterie. Why not turn your visit into a holiday. You can relax and unwind near the winery in the beautiful “Vine House”, newly refurbished holiday accommodation sleeping 6. For more information please contact John Hemmant and his team on 01508 333002 to discuss availability or visit www.chetvineyard.co.uk

Flint Vineyard.

Nestled on a sunny hill overlooking the Waveney Valley, close to the bustling market town of Bungay, Ben Witchell crafts wines using a blend of innovation and respect for tradition.

Bacchus, Pinot blanc and Pinot noir varieties are all planted at Flint Vineyard. Their Bacchus 2017 has been named by The Independent as Indy Best Buy English Still Wine 2018 and included in The Times Top 50 White Wines.

Tours of the vineyard and winery are available by appointment most Saturdays. Why not add on a Flint vineyard 15 Mile Lunch, which offers some of the finest local produce from the Waveney Valley. For more information call 01986 893942 or visit www.flintvineyard.com