A Kent vineyard has been named best in the country – and has just made it into the world’s top 50.
Leading wine producer Gusbourne, based in Appledore near Ashford, has been ranked 50th in the World’s Best Vineyards 2024 list.
Founded by Andrew Weeber in 2004, the company was the only UK winery named in the list.
The annual awards recognise the ‘finest vineyards across the globe’.
Nominees span across five continents and are chosen by 500 travel and wine tourism experts.
Those nominated are said to “exemplify excellence, innovation and a commitment to quality, guiding wine enthusiasts to explore both hidden gems and renowned estates”.
Commenting on the Appledore vineyard, the organisers said: “Gusbourne focuses on growing the highest quality Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes across their 148 acres in Appledore and 75 acres adjoining the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex.
“Their predominantly Burgundian clones thrive in the chalky soils and unique microclimates and yield small volumes of intensely flavourful fruit.
“This exceptional produce is the vital first ingredient in making award-winning sparkling wines, all of which are crafted using traditional Méthode Champenoise.
“Gusbourne wines are a product of nature and know-how, time and patience.
“Hand-picked fruit is gently pressed in whole bunches to yield only the best juice.
“The initial fermentation takes place in thermo-regulated stainless-steel tanks and a selection of oak barrels before secondary fermentation and ageing in bottle for a minimum of 25 months.”
Gusbourne, a three-time International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) winner, employs almost 100 people and distributes its wines across the UK and overseas.
And when asked its reaction to being recognised in the top 50 list, CEO, Jonathan White, said: “To be ranked alongside some of the world’s leading wine estates is an absolute honour, and wonderful recognition of what has been achieved in such a short space of time.
“Since the very beginning, we have worked tirelessly to create exceptional, quality driven wines that stand alongside the very best from across the globe, as well as building a cellar door experience that gives our customers exclusive access to everything Gusbourne has to offer.
“While England has historically been an underdog on the international wine stage, it is a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector.
“This recognition is an exciting milestone for both Gusbourne and English wine.”
