Rosemary Vineyard
Welcome to Rosemary Vineyard, one of the largest producers of English Wine, covering 30 acres, Rosemary Vineyard is ideally placed to make the most of the mild Island climate. All English wine, liqueurs, juices and ciders are made on the estate from grapes / apples grown on the estate. Relax and enjoy a taste of the good life in this peaceful setting.
It is not altogether surprising to learn that it was the Romans, with their love of the fine things in life, who introduced vine growing and wine making to Britain. Unfortunately these skills were mostly lost during the reign of Henry VIII and it was not until 1946 that the scientist Ray Barrington Brock introduced varieties of wine grapes suitable for our cooler climate, so enabling English viticulture to flourish again.
Thanks largely to his original research vineyards like ourselves are able to produce an impressive selection of high quality wines. There are now over 500 vineyards in the UK.
Rosemary vineyard was planted in 1986 and covers 30 acres at almost 60 feet above sea level. With its mostly south facing aspect the vineyard is ideally placed to benefit from the mild island climate. The valley situation helps retain summer warmth and offers shelter from the south-westerly winds. The gentle vineyard slopes allow excellent frost drainage in the spring to protect the newly budded vines whilst the soil, a clay-silt loam overlying green sand, is not only free-draining but also retains sufficient moisture for healthy growth.
Whatever your tipple there's something for everyone; from full-bodied english red wines, ciders and bottle fermented sparkling wines to liqueurs, country wines and refreshing apple juice. Also sell an excellent selection of traditional Island made mustards, beers, sweets, pottery and biscuits
VISITORS INFORMATION:
Admissions free!
Vineyard Opening Times
April - September Mon - Sat 10am - 5:30pm Sun 11am - 4pm
October - November Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm Sun 11am - 4pm
Decmber - March Mon - Sat 10am - 4pm Sun 11am - 4pm (Closed Sunday Jan / Feb)
Vineleaf Coffee Shop Opening Times
April - September Mon - Sat 10am - 5:00pm Sun 11am - 4pm
October - December Mon - Sat 10am - 4pm Sun 11am - 4pm
January - February Mon - Sat 11am - 3pm (Closed Sunday)
March Mon - Sat 10am - 4pm Sun 11am - 4pm
While visiting us there is a lot for you to see and do.
Stroll around the vines, enjoying the surrounding views, and discovering the different varieties we grow, and the way that Traditional Vineyards are planted.
Watch our 'Vine to Wine' video, showing a typical year in the vineyard.
Tour around the wineries, reading our display boards, and seeing the different equipment that we use.
Address:
Rosemary Vineyard
Smallbrook Lane,
Ryde,
Isle of Wight.
PO33 4BE