Rathfinny Wine Estate Marks 10th Harvest with Special Wine Dinners and Exclusive Events

August 2024 – This year marks a special milestone for the Rathfinny Wine Estate as it celebrates a decade of exceptional Sussex Sparkling winemaking.

To commemorate the occasion, the renowned English vineyard will host a series of unique wine dinners and experiences across the UK, bringing together wine lovers and culinary enthusiasts for a series of unforgettable gastronomic events.

A decade of exceptional winemaking

Since its first harvest in 2014, Rathfinny Wine Estate has become one of the UK’s most celebrated sparkling wine producers. Located in the South Downs National Park in East Sussex, Rathfinny has garnered praise for its premium Traditional Method wines, made from hand-harvested grapes grown on its single-site vineyard. These wines carry the prestigious Sussex Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, a testament to their superior quality and local provenance.

Marking its 10th harvest anniversary, the estate is planning a series of wine dinners and experiences across some of the UK’s top dining destinations.

These events promise to showcase the best of Rathfinny Sussex Sparkling paired with seasonal dishes crafted by some of the country’s leading chefs. Each menu will be carefully curated to highlight the versatility and elegance of Rathfinny's portfolio, which includes acclaimed vintages like the 2019 Classic Cuvée, Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, and Rosé.

Special harvest with local pickers

As part of the 10th anniversary celebrations, Rathfinny is enlisting over 200 local grape pickers from the Sussex community to hand-pick grapes during this special harvest. This dedication to hand-picking and careful selection ensures that only the finest fruit is used in the production of Rathfinny’s renowned sparkling wines. The attention to detail and commitment to quality have been at the heart of Rathfinny’s winemaking philosophy since its inception, making it one of the few single-site grower-producers in the region.

Rathfinny’s founders, Mark and Sarah Driver, have always emphasised the importance of sustainability and community engagement in their operations. Their efforts were recognised when Rathfinny became B Corp certified in 2023, reflecting their commitment to responsible business practices.

Exclusive wine dinners across the UK

To celebrate their decade-long journey, Rathfinny will host 10 exclusive wine dinners at some of the country’s finest venues. These intimate events will offer guests the opportunity to experience Rathfinny’s sparkling wines expertly paired with autumn-inspired menus created by a selection of talented chefs. Additionally, guests will have the chance to taste rare and aged bottles from Rathfinny’s wine library, offering a deeper insight into the estate’s winemaking journey.

The event calendar for these dinners includes some of the most prestigious dining locations across the UK:

• Native at Pensons, Tenbury Wells – 26th September
• Woven by Adam Smith, Ascot – 3rd October
• The Barnsdale, Rutland – 7th October
• Rathfinny Wine Estate Tasting Room, Sussex – 9th October
• Rathfinny Wine Estate Tasting Room, Sussex – 16th October
• The Pheasant at Harome, Yorkshire – 18th October
• Maison Bleue, Bury St Edmunds – 21st October
• Rathfinny Wine Estate Tasting Room, Sussex – 23rd October
• The Beacon, Kent – 24th October
• Bodega, Cardiff – 31st October

These events provide an excellent opportunity for wine enthusiasts to explore the depth of Rathfinny’s offering, while also learning about the history and future ambitions of this standout English wine producer.

A Unique gastronomic experience

Rathfinny wines are renowned for their ability to pair beautifully with food, making them ideal companions for fine dining experiences. At each event, guests will be guided through a tasting of Rathfinny’s full portfolio, learning about the nuances of each wine, from the delicate Blanc de Blancs to the bold Blanc de Noirs. In addition to these core vintages, diners will be treated to a selection of rare and limited-edition wines from Rathfinny’s cellars.

The menus, designed in collaboration with some of the country’s best chefs, will feature locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, offering a true celebration of British gastronomy. Each dish will be carefully paired with a Rathfinny wine, highlighting the estate’s reputation for producing wines that are as much at home on the dining table as they are in the glass.

Sustainability and winemaking heritage

Since its founding in 2010, sustainability has been a cornerstone of Rathfinny’s operations. The estate was established on what was once a working farm, and from the outset, Mark and Sarah Driver have prioritised environmental stewardship.

Today, Rathfinny’s vineyards cover more than 230 acres, planted primarily with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier grape varieties, chosen for their suitability to the chalky soils and cool climate of Sussex.

In addition to their sustainable vineyard practices, Rathfinny has invested in energy-efficient facilities and water conservation measures. The estate’s RIBA-nominated winery is designed to minimise environmental impact, and all wines are produced using traditional methods that emphasise minimal intervention.

Wine tourism and vineyard experiences

Beyond its winemaking prowess, Rathfinny Wine Estate has become a popular destination for wine tourism, attracting visitors from across the UK and beyond. The estate offers a variety of experiences for those looking to immerse themselves in the world of English sparkling wine, from guided vineyard tours to tastings at the estate’s Michelin-recommended Tasting Room restaurant.

Guests can also enjoy a more relaxed experience at the Flint Barns Dining Room or The Hut, Rathfinny’s alfresco wine bar, which offers stunning views over the vineyards. For those looking to extend their stay, the estate provides charming accommodation options, including the homely Flint Barns and the self-catering Rathfinny Cottage, both nestled within the vines.

Booking Information

Wine lovers interested in attending any of the upcoming events can book their tickets via the Rathfinny website. Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended to secure a spot at these exclusive dinners.

For more information and to reserve your place at one of Rathfinny’s anniversary events, visit Rathfinny Events.