Davenport Vineyards is relatively new (for a vineyard), but rapidly becoming a leader in the English wine scene. Their original vineyard was planted in 1991 in Kent, and they now have 12 acres of vines, all managed organically under UK Soil Association Certification. The winery in Sussex is one of the best equipped in England, and since 1995 Davenport Vineyards have developed a reputation based on the quality and individuality of their English wines.

"Owner and winemaker Will Davenport is probably one of the most skillful and pioneering winemakers operating in England today. Davenport is definitely an estate to watch with interest when it comes to innovation in English wines." -- Winefinders English wine catalogue.

They have vineyards on two sites. At Hazel Street Farm, Horsmonden in Kent, the first vines were planted in 1991 and have been productive since the 1993 harvest. Here they grow Ortega, Faber, Bacchus, Huxelrebe, Siegerrebe and Pinot Noir grapes. Across the border in East Sussex at Limney Farm in Rotherfield is a 4 acre vineyard planted in 1993. Here they grow Pinot Noir and Auxerrois grapes which have been brought up with largely organic management techniques.

Now in regular production from the Limney Vineyard, the Limney Estate quality sparkling wine is made from 55% Pinot Noir with 45% Auxerrois and has been aged on lees for over 2 years. The wine is in the 'champagne' style with strong Pinot character and good yeast flavours. It has a crisp dry balance with fantastic complexity of fruit and yeast flavours.

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