Two English vineyard gems on the market
For those with a taste for English wine and a penchant for land acquisition, two intriguing vineyard opportunities have emerged. One, a potential jewel of the organic wine movement, the other, a vineyard with classic Burgundian ambition. Both represent the evolving face of UK viticulture, a sector that has expanded at a dizzying pace over the past decade. The post Two English vineyard gems on the market appeared first on The Drinks Business.
For those with a taste for English wine and a penchant for land acquisition, two intriguing vineyard opportunities have emerged. One, a potential jewel of the organic wine movement, the other, a vineyard with classic Burgundian ambition. Both represent the evolving face of UK viticulture, a sector that has expanded at a dizzying pace over the past decade.
According to WineGB, the UK now boasts 1,030 vineyards and 221 wineries, an increase of 123% over ten years. Some 76% of production is sparkling wine, overwhelmingly in the traditional method (91%). Still wine is also growing, now accounting for nearly a quarter of total production. The momentum is undeniable, even if, as Chris Spofforth, director of farms and estates at Savills estate agents puts it, “Compared to other agricultural sectors, [viticulture] remains relatively niche”.
So, who’s buying? There are arguably four main types of vineyard buyers: lifestyle investors, ambitious new entrants, expanding producers, and, inevitably, dreamers with more enthusiasm than expertise. With English vineyard land fetching £35,000–£40,000 per acre, there’s no longer the frustrating reality of newly planted vines losing value on paper — “It felt similar to buying a new car and immediately losing value,” Spofforth told db.
Additionally, vineyards are subject to the same tax considerations as traditional farms, which remains a major concern for many owners. “Planning ahead is crucial,” Spofforth advises. “The changes to agricultural property relief and business property relief have made it even more important to prepare for eventualities in advance.” He also highlights the complexities of stock valuation in vineyard businesses, cautioning that without careful planning, taxation could become a significant financial burden.
However, the value of vineyard land in the UK has increased over the past decade (up £10,000–£15,000 per acre on average). According to Spofforth, the value of the residential elements of these properties is typically higher than it is in more established wine regions such as France.
Two estates currently on the market showcase the diversity of investment potential in UK viticulture.
With 12 acres of well-established vines (Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay — the English wine trinity), Blackdon Farm is a serious winemaking proposition. Planted in 2015, it produces a respectable 25,000–30,000 bottles per year. At a guide price of £4.59 million, it represents a high-end opportunity for either a commercial producer looking to expand or a deep-pocketed enthusiast looking for the ultimate vinous playground.
The location — Tunbridge Wells, a well-heeled corner of Kent — offers proximity to major producers while providing its own brand-building potential. If UK sparkling wine is, as many claim, giving Champagne a run for its money, then this is precisely the kind of terroir that has made that possible.
For those seeking a more sustainable angle, Sedlescombe Vineyard in East Sussex presents a unique proposition. Established in 1979, it is the UK’s first organic and biodynamic vineyard. It also happens to be a highly successful tourist destination, with an elegant visitor centre, tasting bar and bistro. The estate spans 16 acres, with 5.24 acres under vine (Regent, Solaris, Monarch and Pinot Noir), and a further 4.3 acres ripe for planting.
While Sedlescombe does not currently have its own winery — its wines are made off-site — it is fully equipped for winemaking, should a buyer wish to take production in-house. The estate also includes a three-bedroom house and recently approved planning for a four-bedroom holiday let, capitalising on Sussex’s booming staycation market.
At a guide price of £1.95 million, Sedlescombe is arguably the perfect entry-level investment for those looking to enter English wine production with an established brand, a loyal following and a revenue stream beyond just the wine itself.
According to WineGB, the UK now boasts 1,030 vineyards and 221 wineries, an increase of 123% over ten years. Some 76% of production is sparkling wine, overwhelmingly in the traditional method (91%). Still wine is also growing, now accounting for nearly a quarter of total production. The momentum is undeniable, even if, as Chris Spofforth, director of farms and estates at Savills estate agents puts it, “Compared to other agricultural sectors, [viticulture] remains relatively niche”.
So, who’s buying? There are arguably four main types of vineyard buyers: lifestyle investors, ambitious new entrants, expanding producers, and, inevitably, dreamers with more enthusiasm than expertise. With English vineyard land fetching £35,000–£40,000 per acre, there’s no longer the frustrating reality of newly planted vines losing value on paper — “It felt similar to buying a new car and immediately losing value,” Spofforth told db.
Additionally, vineyards are subject to the same tax considerations as traditional farms, which remains a major concern for many owners. “Planning ahead is crucial,” Spofforth advises. “The changes to agricultural property relief and business property relief have made it even more important to prepare for eventualities in advance.” He also highlights the complexities of stock valuation in vineyard businesses, cautioning that without careful planning, taxation could become a significant financial burden.
However, the value of vineyard land in the UK has increased over the past decade (up £10,000–£15,000 per acre on average). According to Spofforth, the value of the residential elements of these properties is typically higher than it is in more established wine regions such as France.
Two estates currently on the market showcase the diversity of investment potential in UK viticulture.
Blackdon Farm, Tunbridge Wells
With 12 acres of well-established vines (Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay — the English wine trinity), Blackdon Farm is a serious winemaking proposition. Planted in 2015, it produces a respectable 25,000–30,000 bottles per year. At a guide price of £4.59 million, it represents a high-end opportunity for either a commercial producer looking to expand or a deep-pocketed enthusiast looking for the ultimate vinous playground.
The location — Tunbridge Wells, a well-heeled corner of Kent — offers proximity to major producers while providing its own brand-building potential. If UK sparkling wine is, as many claim, giving Champagne a run for its money, then this is precisely the kind of terroir that has made that possible.
Sedlescombe Vineyard, East Sussex
For those seeking a more sustainable angle, Sedlescombe Vineyard in East Sussex presents a unique proposition. Established in 1979, it is the UK’s first organic and biodynamic vineyard. It also happens to be a highly successful tourist destination, with an elegant visitor centre, tasting bar and bistro. The estate spans 16 acres, with 5.24 acres under vine (Regent, Solaris, Monarch and Pinot Noir), and a further 4.3 acres ripe for planting.
While Sedlescombe does not currently have its own winery — its wines are made off-site — it is fully equipped for winemaking, should a buyer wish to take production in-house. The estate also includes a three-bedroom house and recently approved planning for a four-bedroom holiday let, capitalising on Sussex’s booming staycation market.
At a guide price of £1.95 million, Sedlescombe is arguably the perfect entry-level investment for those looking to enter English wine production with an established brand, a loyal following and a revenue stream beyond just the wine itself.
