Why This English Vineyard Property Will Spark Your Passion

If you love wine, Chalksole Manor might be your dream come true! A stunning vineyard with endless potential awaits its next owner. Curious?

The Allure of Chalksole Manor

Imagine wandering through the lush rows of vines, sunlight filtering through the leaves, and a cool breeze carrying the scent of ripening grapes. Chalksole Manor, located in East Kent, is not just a luxurious property; it’s a gateway into the thriving world of English sparkling wine. Priced at £3.3 million, this 2.8-hectare vineyard boasts 9,000 vines planted with the classic trio: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. These varieties are renowned for their role in Champagne production but have also become the backbone of England’s sparkling wine renaissance over the past two decades.

As I walked through this enchanting estate recently, I couldn’t help but marvel at how much potential it offers for aspiring winemakers or those looking to indulge in a rural lifestyle while generating income. It’s one thing to sip a well-aged bottle from your favorite vineyard; it’s another to own one yourself!

A Journey Through Time and Taste

Chalksole Manor was originally constructed in 1920 for Sir Thomas Henry Devereux Berridge KBE. Over the years, it has been transformed and lovingly maintained by its current owners since 2002. The Arts & Crafts style architecture adds to its charm and history, making it not just a home but a narrative steeped in tradition.

The allure doesn’t end there. The property features an option for an additional 3,600-square-foot agricultural barn, perfect for anyone looking to expand their wine business or start anew without the arduous task of developing from scratch. This space could serve as a hub for production or even as a tasting room where guests can savor the fruits of their labor.

Tapping into English Wine’s Renaissance

Wine production in the UK has seen remarkable growth—over 1,000 vineyards now dot the landscape! According to WineGB, Chardonnay leads with 32% of plantings, followed closely by Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. The recent boom has caught the attention of prestigious Champagne houses like Taittinger, which inaugurated its Domaine Evremond in Kent just last year.

Owning Chalksole Manor isn’t just about prestige; it’s about being part of this exciting evolution in English winemaking. As I learned during my visit here, starting your own vineyard can be daunting and requires significant investment upfront—a reality that many enthusiasts overlook until it’s too late.

Opportunities Await at Chalksole Manor

One unique feature about this estate is that it already generates income through holiday lets on site—something that can support new owners as they grow their wine business or enjoy life amidst picturesque landscapes.

Alex Cornwallis from BTF Partnership noted that prospective buyers could run the vineyard as a hobby or develop it commercially according to their aspirations. With potential annual production estimated at 7,000 to 8,000 bottles, plus opportunities for expansion with additional land acquisition—this place is bursting with possibilities!

FAQ: All Your Questions Answered

How much does Chalksole Manor cost?

The asking price is £3.3 million.

What types of grapes are grown here?

The vineyard grows Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.

Can I run my own winery here?

Yes! There’s plenty of room for development and business growth.

What other income opportunities exist?

The property currently offers holiday lets that provide an additional revenue stream.

How many bottles can be produced annually?

Production capacity ranges from 7,000 to 8,000 bottles per year.

Chalksole Manor represents more than just real estate; it embodies an opportunity—a chance to immerse oneself in viticulture while enjoying all that life in East Kent has to offer.

Photo by Peter Herrmann on Unsplash