Albourne Estate

Albourne Estate was established in 2010 by Alison Nightingale, who left a successful international marketing career to pursue her passion for winemaking. After completing a Viticulture & Enology degree at Plumpton College, Alison and her husband Nick Cooper found the perfect site at Albourne Farm, just north of the South Downs.

The 30-acre vineyard was carefully selected for its south-facing slope, altitude, and unique geology – a ridge of green sandstone that provides excellent drainage and reduced frost risk. These features create ideal conditions for growing a diverse range of grape varieties that thrive in England's cool climate.

What began as a boutique family venture has evolved into one of England's most innovative wine producers, known for exceptional still wines, sparkling wines, and pioneering the production of English vermouth. Despite their growth and success, Albourne remains committed to sustainable, low-carbon production methods and maintains their boutique approach to winemaking.

The estate's philosophy centers on creating distinctive wines that capture the essence of their unique Sussex terroir while supporting the local community and environment. Their commitment to quality has been recognized with numerous awards, including UK Wine of the Year for their Bacchus in 2015.

Albourne Estate offers several ways to experience their exceptional wines and beautiful surroundings. All experiences can be booked directly through their website.

Vineyard Tour with Wine & Cheese Tasting (1.45hrs)

Time: 11am & 2pm on Saturdays, 11am on Sundays

A stroll through Albourne's beautiful vineyard followed by a behind-the-scenes winery tour. Concludes with a guided tasting of 4 wines, each paired with local Sussex cheese.

£28pp Book with Albourne Estate

Guided Wine Tasting (1hr)

Time: 3pm on selected Saturdays & Sundays

A seated tasting experience where you'll sample 5 award-winning wines including sparkling, still, and their innovative vermouth, guided by a knowledgeable team member.

£18.50 pp Book with Albourne Estate

Self-Guided Vineyard Trail (at your own pace)

Time: Available during opening hours.

Includes a map and guide, and a peaceful lakeside spot to relax. Follow the sign-posted trail around the vineyard with 7 information points explaining the vineyard’s annual cycle.

Albourne's contemporary tasting room offers panoramic views across the vineyard to the South Downs. The bright, airy space features floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the outside in, creating a seamless connection with the surrounding landscape.

Visitors can enjoy guided tastings at the custom-built bar (pre-booked) or relax on the terrace with a glass of wine while taking in the views. The tasting room also houses a shop where the full range of Albourne wines and vermouths are available for purchase, including limited-edition releases only available at the estate.

Albourne Estate produces a diverse range of wines that showcase the versatility of English viticulture:

• White Wines: Including their award-winning Bacchus, Estate Selection, and Ortega, offering bright acidity and distinctive aromatic profiles

• Sparkling Wines: Both traditional method and charmat method sparkling wines, including their elegant Blanc de Blancs and refreshing Estate Reserve

• Rosé: Delicate still rosé with subtle red fruit notes

• Vermouths: Pioneering English vermouths in 40 Vermouth (dry) and 20 Vermouth (semi-sweet) styles, crafted using estate wines and botanicals grown on the property

• Limited Editions: Small-batch experimental wines that push the boundaries of English winemaking

All wines are produced from grapes grown exclusively on the estate, ensuring complete control over quality and expressing the unique character of their Sussex terroir.