Tucked away in the picturesque North Downs of Kent, the Squerryes Wine Estate offers a unique opportunity to explore the art of winemaking. With over two decades of experience, the Warde family has cultivated a range of award-winning sparkling wines that reflect the estate’s rich heritage and exceptional terroir. Join them on a guided tour to discover the secrets behind their acclaimed vintages and savor the flavors that make this corner of Kent so truly captivating.
Key Points
- Squerryes Wine Estate is a historic 300-year-old property located in Kent, known as the "Garden of England," offering a wine tasting experience.
- The estate is home to the Warde family, with a long history in viticulture and producing award-winning vintage sparkling wines from traditional Champagne grape varieties.
- Visitors can explore the vineyards and enjoy a guided tasting of three signature Squerryes sparkling wines, learning about the winemaking process and the estate’s rich heritage.
- The tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the essence of Kentish winemaking, with the estate situated on the chalk-rich North Downs, providing an ideal terroir for the wines.
- Comfortable, weather-appropriate attire and sturdy shoes are recommended for the outdoor component of the tour, which includes a 45-minute vineyard visit.
About Squerryes Wine Estate
Squerryes Wine Estate is a historic 300-year-old property located in the heart of Kent, renowned as the "Garden of England."
The estate has been the home of the Warde family for four generations, celebrating their 24th year in viticulture.
A four-generation legacy, the Warde family celebrates 24 years of Kentish viticulture at their historic Squerryes Wine Estate.
The vines are planted on the chalk North Downs, providing an ideal terroir for producing award-winning vintage sparkling wines.
Visitors can explore the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy a tutored tasting of three signature sparkling wines in a designated tasting room.
The estate offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and quality of Kentish winemaking.
Looking for more options in Westerham? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
History of the Estate
The estate’s history can be traced back over 300 years, with the Warde family calling it home for four generations.
The family’s roots run deep in the region, having been involved in viticulture for over two decades.
Situated on the chalk North Downs, the estate has long been recognized as the "gateway to the Garden of England."
Today, the Warde family continues to honor the estate’s rich heritage while producing award-winning sparkling wines that capture the essence of this renowned winemaking region.
Viticulture and Winemaking
Situated on the chalk-rich North Downs, the estate’s vineyards showcase the region’s ideal terroir for growing the traditional Champagne grape varieties. The Squerryes winemaking team closely monitors the vines, carefully pruning and managing the canopy to ensure optimal fruit development. This meticulous attention to viticulture is reflected in the estate’s award-winning sparkling wines.
| Grape Varieties | Percentage of Vineyard |
|—————–|————————|
| Chardonnay | 45% |
| Pinot Noir | 35% |
| Pinot Meunier | 20% |
The wines are produced using the traditional Champagne method, with extended time spent on the lees to develop the complex flavors and creamy textures that define the Squerryes house style.
The Wine Tasting Experience
Visitors are welcomed into a designated tasting room, where a knowledgeable guide leads them through a tutored sampling of three award-winning vintage sparkling wines produced by Squerryes.
The guide provides insights into the winemaking process, highlighting the estate’s 300-year history and the unique terroir of the chalk North Downs.
Guests savor the complexity and elegance of each vintage, learning to discern the subtle notes and distinctive characteristics that make Squerryes’ sparkling wines so acclaimed.
The tasting experience offers a captivating glimpse into the winemaker’s art, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the estate’s rich heritage and exceptional wines.
More Great Tours NearbyHighlights of the Tour
As visitors stroll through the picturesque vineyards, they’ll gain a deeper understanding of the estate’s rich 300-year history.
A knowledgeable guide will lead the way, sharing insights into the lifecycle of the vine and the winemaking process.
The tour includes a tutored tasting of three award-winning vintage sparkling wines, allowing guests to appreciate the nuances of each varietal.
A tutored tasting of three award-winning vintage sparkling wines, allowing guests to appreciate the nuances of each varietal.
Set against the backdrop of the chalk North Downs, the tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the winemaking tradition that has been passed down through four generations of the Warde family.
Preparing for the Tour
To make the most of the Squerryes Wine Tour, visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire.
The tour involves a 45-minute outdoor component in the vineyard, so sturdy shoes and layers are recommended.
Bringing an umbrella or light jacket is also advised, as the Kent weather can be unpredictable.
The tour welcomes guests aged 18 and above.
Participants should arrive at the designated meeting point – the Terrace – where the knowledgeable tour guide will be waiting.
The tour includes a tutored tasting of three award-winning vintage sparkling wines, so come prepared to engage with the winemaking process.
Meeting Point and Directions
Where’s the meeting point for the Squerryes Wine Tour?
The tour begins at the terrace of the Squerryes Wine Estate in Westerham, Kent. This is where the knowledgeable tour guide will be waiting to greet you.
The estate is easily accessible, located just a short drive from the M25 motorway. Once you arrive, look for the guide who’ll be ready to provide an overview of the tour and escort you through the vineyards.
Be sure to dress appropriately for the outdoor portion, as the weather in Kent can be unpredictable.
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Travelers can reserve their spot on the Squerryes Wine Tour without upfront payment.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility in planning. This policy provides peace of mind, knowing that:
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Refunds are available if plans change
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Last-minute availability is maintained
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Visitors can secure their spot without immediate payment
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour has an outdoor component, so it’s recommended to wear suitable clothing for unpredictable weather. Participants should dress comfortably for walking through the vineyard during the 45-minute tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Guests are not permitted to bring their own food or drinks on the tour. The experience focuses on tasting the estate’s award-winning wines under the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide. Refreshments are available for purchase at the winery.
Are There Any Discounts or Group Rates Available?
The website doesn’t mention any discounts or group rates for the Squerryes Wine Tour and Tasting. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour provider as they may offer special pricing for larger bookings or advance reservations.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour’s standard duration is 1.5 hours, but there’s no option to extend it. However, visitors can explore the estate further on their own after the guided tour and tasting if they wish to spend more time at the winery.
Do I Need to Bring Anything Specific for the Wine Tasting?
The wine tasting doesn’t require any special items. Just bring an open mind and palate to enjoy the award-winning sparkling wines. The tour guide will provide all necessary materials for the tutored tasting portion of the experience.
The Sum Up
The Squerryes Wine Tour and Tasting offers a delightful opportunity to explore Kent’s rich winemaking heritage. Visitors can discover the estate’s history, learn about its viticulture, and savor its award-winning sparkling wines. With stunning countryside views and a guided tasting experience, this tour provides an immersive and informative journey into the world of Squerryes’ exceptional wines.
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