English wine maker Chapel Down has announced the launch of a significant new 119-acre vineyard on the Kent Downs, marking a major expansion in its mission to produce world-class sparkling wines.
Buckwell vineyard, located near the historic village of Wye, was planted last year. It sits on exceptional chalk soils and benefits from South and South East facing slopes, giving it extended sunshine hours and near-perfect conditions for growing the classic sparkling wine grapes.
The site is home to 92 acres of Chardonnay and 27 acres of Pinot Noir, both of which will be used in the production of Chapel Down’s award-winning sparkling wines. The first harvest is expected in autumn 2027.
The development of Buckwell also reflects Chapel Down’s ongoing commitment to sustainable viticulture. The site features specialist weeding equipment that minimises both soil disturbance and herbicide use. This approach supports regenerative agriculture principles and contributes to improved soil health and reduced environmental impact.
Josh Donaghay-Spire, head winemaker and operations director at Chapel Down, said: “Buckwell Vineyard is an incredibly exciting addition to our estate. With its location on the world-renowned Kent Downs, excellent chalk soils and a unique microclimate, we believe it has all the hallmarks of a truly world-class vineyard.”
The site has historically been used for arable farming and has now transitioned to viticulture. A recent study found that viticulture employs 17 times more people per hectare than traditional arable farming, meaning Buckwell represents not only a major investment in English wine but also a positive contribution to the local rural economy.
Kent continues to be at the forefront of English winemaking, and Chapel Down’s growing vineyard portfolio underlines its commitment to the region.
With the addition to Buckwell vineyard, the producer has 1,018 acres under vine, in total equivalent to approximately one tenth of the UK’s total vineyard acreage.
Its Kit’s Coty estate on the Kent Downs is already widely regarded as one of the best vineyards in the country, producing award-winning single estate wines including Kit’s Coty Coeur de Cuvée 2016 and Kit’s Coty Chardonnay 2021.
