News From The Groups

Sunset Wine Tour: Ambergate Vineyard

Our tour began with a warm welcome, on a cool evening, from the vineyard owner, who greeted us with genuine hospitality and enthusiasm. As we gathered near the vineyard’s entrance, the owner gave an insightful introduction to the vineyard, focusing on the intricacies of growing vines. One of the key topics discussed was the advantage of growing vines on a slope, where better drainage and optimal sun exposure allow for superior grape quality, contributing to the unique character and flavour of Ambergate’s wines.

A big thank you has to go to Rita Bodill who organised the tour of the vineyard.

As we strolled through the rows of vines, the owner elaborated on the different grape varieties grown at Ambergate and how each variety is carefully nurtured to bring out its best qualities. We learned that the vineyard specializes in several grape varieties, each of which is selected for its compatibility with the local terrain and climate.

We were treated to a lovely cold buffet meal. The spread included a selection of fresh, locally sourced delicacies that paired beautifully with the wines we were soon to taste.

The tour culminated in a wine tasting session, where we had the opportunity to sample all the wines produced from the grapes grown at Ambergate Vineyard. The wines tasted during the evening included:

1. Ambergate Chardonnay – A crisp, refreshing white wine with hints of green apple and citrus, perfect for a summer evening.
2. Ambergate Pinot Noir – A smooth and elegant red wine, known for its delicate balance of red fruit flavors and subtle earthy notes.
3. Ambergate Rosé – A delightful rosé with a light, fruity profile, featuring notes of strawberry and raspberry, ideal for sipping on a warm evening.
4. Ambergate Cabernet Sauvignon – A full-bodied red wine with rich flavors of dark berries and a hint of spice, showcasing the vineyard’s expertise in crafting robust reds.

Each wine was introduced with a brief explanation of its production process and the specific grape varieties used. Guests were able to appreciate the distinct characteristics of each wine, enhanced by the knowledge gained from the vineyard tour.  Everyone in attendance thoroughly enjoyed the event, making it a memorable experience for all.