Page 46 - Naked Foodies - July 2021

English wines did exceptionally well in international awards over the last year and Woodchester Valley were honoured to be amongst them. In the WineGB competition, the benchmark for English wines, five medals were awarded to the vineyard including a first Sparkling Gold Medal for the outstanding Rosé Brut. Sparkling wines also won Silver Medal awards in the Decanter 2020 World Wine Awards.
In a year of so much uncertainty it is deeply reassuring to see the vines flourishing in their lush summer greenery as they give a deep connection with the natural world and the rhythm of the seasons. The valley view Tasting Room has ample space for social distancing and visitors can book a relaxed and informative vineyard tour and enjoy a generous selection of the wines in the spacious airy Tasting Room with a splendid outlook. There are two vineyard tours (with a strictly limited capacity) one followed by a Classic Still wine tasting and one a Sparkling wine tasting. Fiona’s friendly knowledgeable team show you around the vines and winery- giving a real insiders peek into the fascinating dynamic world of English wines.
There is also discreet luxury accommodation perched amongst the vines allowing guests the leisure to unwind at the vineyard haven. As the local poet W. H. Davies once wrote, “What is this life, if full of care, we have no time to stand and stare?” Mindful advice for our unsettled times. Surrounded by National Trust properties with open grasslands, Neolithic ruins, lakes and even an abandoned Gothic mansion nearby - the estate is a walker’s paradise. Woodchester Valley vineyard is very much a working farm yet retains an enchanting and relaxed atmosphere a perfect place to revive and restore. Visitors are spoiled for choice with excellent country pubs and local gem restaurants, a vibrant, artisan foodie scene thrives in the surrounding Five Valleys area and the nearby town of Stroud has a bustling farmers market.
After all the challenges of lockdown the Shiner family have adapted new ways of operating; the Cellar Door wine shop now offers doorstep delivery service, and wines can be ordered for delivery throughout mainland UK, including stylish gift packaging with hand written notes. Bespoke virtual wine tastings are available for groups and businesses needing to reconnect since working from home, and more festive food events have been added for the summer months, such as picnic lunches and afternoon teas, to make the most of the great outdoors!
www.woodchestervalleyvineyard.co.uk info@woodchestervalleyvineyard.co.uk 07523 967 219
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