On Thursday 28th August 2025, BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine readers were treated to an exclusive day at Ridgeview Wine Estate – a rare chance to venture beyond the tasting room and discover hidden corners of the vineyard that are normally closed to the public.
Emma Crawforth, Horticultural Editor at BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine, reflects on her experience of the day:
Sheltered by the high chalk ridge of the South Downs, Ridgeview is an ideal site for growing grapevines suitable for white wine production and a very beautiful and peaceful spot.
We travelled by train and taxi but there’s a well-appointed carpark too. Martin Garner, the events manager greeted us, showing us to a terrace with a stunning view (upstairs) where hot drinks and pastries were set out for guests while everyone arrived. There were loos nearby and a similar but roofed option at ground level.
I gave the introduction to the day and we were joined by the viticulturist (Matthew) and winemaker (Simon). Matthew provided a fascinating talk on growing for winemaking, standing right by the vines and pointing out their features to show where to make pruning cuts. He ran through the grape-growing year and explained why Ridgeview is such a good place for a vineyard.
Next we were given access to the cellar with Simon for a tasting ‘out of the tank’ and to hear how grapes are made into award-winning wines. This involved the youngest wines, before they are mature enough to be sold, although they were still delicious and distinctive.
With our appetites whetted we moved to a cheese and wine pairing, trying four locally made cheeses perfectly partnered with Ridgeview wines. My favourite was the Seven Sisters sheep cheese paired with Fitzrovia Rose, but they were all very good, leading to clean plates all round. Meanwhile David, a Ridgeview sommelier expertly and entertainingly talked us through the experience.
Lunch followed, with a chance to enjoy the Ridgeview 2010 Blanc de Blanc Magnum along with locally produced delicacies for a communal and chatty meal of generous servings. I won’t forget the crispy miso broccoli. Our day ended with a chance to wander in Ridgeview’s wood and buy a bottle of wine to take home plus GW goodybags augmented with a treat from Ridgeview.
It was a day to remember with a winery not only very rooted in its special part of the countryside but also holding B Corp status.
