Bubbly Hampshire aims to offer even more of a sparkling spectacle for vineyard visitors this summer.
Back for its ninth year, the 2023 celebration of Hampshire’s flourishing wine scene is being staged at England’s oldest commercial vineyard, Hambledon Vineyard, on Sunday 23rd July.
Fizz Fest – the flagship event from The Vineyards of Hampshire (VoH) whose members range from small family-owned producers to large vineyards – offers wine lovers the chance to sample more than 20 sparkling and still wines and ‘meet the makers’.
Adding some extra cheer, along with tasting the latest vintages in the dedicated tasting tent and enjoying a chilled glass of sparkling in the Fizz Bar, there will be live music from award-winning jazz vocalist Amy Baker as well as Hampshire street food stalls.
While the UK’s wine industry may be a newcomer compared to those of France, Spain and Italy, English sparkling wine has gone from strength to strength in recent years, and Hampshire can lay claim to producing some of the best.
Helped by the warm climate and similar chalky terrain to the Champagne region, the county is home to a host of vineyards, many of which offer tours and tastings.
Fizz Fest brings the county’s premier vineyards all together in one place – including, for 2023, VoH’s newest member Quob Park Estate in Wickham – with a different vineyard hosting the summer event each year.
This year it is the turn of the Hambledon, which was established in 1952, and which today has just over 200 acres under vine with a mission to create the finest English Fizz.
Tickets cost £35 per person, with masterclasses £25 per person, and vineyard and winery tours at £12 per person.
For more information about the Vineyards of Hampshire, and to book tickets for the event, visit www.vineyardsofhampshire.co.uk
Visit Hampshire has a special section on its website featuring vineyard attractions and tours:
For general tourist information about Hampshire, see www.visit-hampshire.co.uk
Main photo: Vineyards of Hampshire ©The Electric Eye Photography
