ENGLAND’S oldest commercial vineyard is celebrating its platinum jubilee.

Throughout 2022, Hambledon Vineyard has been marking its 70th anniversary with offers, pop-up events and the release of a new wine.

Vines were first planted at the Waterlooville base in 1952 by British Army Officer Sir Guy Salisbury-Jones. Current owners Ian and Anna Kellett listed the Queen serving their Classic Cuvee Rosé to a US president at a state banquet at Windsor Castle and winning the Noble Rot 2015 tasting as some of their proudest achievements.

In 2004, Mr and Mrs Kellett planted their first vines to replace the existing vineyard with purely sparkling wine clones and rootstocks. The new winery was completed in 2011. Next, the couple aims to open hospitality facilities in March 2023, now that they have received planning approval.

Hampshire Chronicle:

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The Hampshire village’s chalky soil and cooler climate are well-suited for producing quality sparkling wine. Hambledon's Classic Cuvée, produced on the chalk slopes of Windmill Down, blends Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier to create layers of floral and stone fruit aromas. 

Reflecting on the vineyard’s 70-year history, co-owner Ian said: “English still wine production is fighting against our current climate, whereas sparkling wine is working with it and taking advantage of it. England has now demonstrated it can make world-class sparkling wine, it has probably not demonstrated that with still wine (more sunshine required).

“So, the very fundamental basis of the product has been fully re-designed. Since the product redesign we have kept brand development minimal, until we were ready. We are now ready and so the branding of the product and its communications are just being launched now. 

“Our team is passionate about what we are doing here. Hard working, focused, artisanal, somewhat eclectic and very international. As a family-owned vineyard, we are a small and close-knit community.”

Mr Kellett is hoping for an even more successful next 70 years.

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In celebration of the anniversary, the vineyard hosted Jubilee-themed lunch events throughout the spring and summer and a British Afternoon Tea from the in-house chef Nick Edgar. Additionally, an exclusive collaboration with chess producer Purley created a limited-edition chess set and wine package.

The family business released the Première Cuvée Rosé this year, predominantly from the 2016 harvest as well as a new brand campaign. To continue the celebrations festive offers will be available and the vineyard is planning a major event for the opening of its new restaurant near the beginning of 2023.

For more go to hambledonvineyard.co.uk/.