Introducing Wayfarer Wines

Wayfarer Wines is a family affair, the vineyard started in the back garden of the family house back in 2016 in rural Kent. Since then, the number of vineyards has increased, with a second location in Woodchurch, Kent. The first was planted by Jeff and Linda Ashford in their back garden, where they planted almost 3,000 vines. The planting of the second vineyard brought the total area under vine up to 8 acres, and there are even plans for a further 7.5 acres to be planted in the near future. This is an up-and-coming producer who knows what they are doing. Jeff and Linda have now been joined by Emma, Karen and Matt, who all share the drive to produce exceptional English Still wines.

The Vineyard Manager, Matt says ‘Our focus is creating truly outstanding still wines from Kent, unlike many English Vineyards, we don’t produce any sparkling at all!’. The whole idea behind this family business started from the realisation that there was a gap in the market when it came to exceptional English still wines. Their main driving force is quality over quantity and really allowing the sugars and characteristic flavours of the grape to develop to their fullest potential to ensure the best possible still wines.

Wayfarer Wines produce an impressive 5 wines from their limited vineyard size. We currently have 3 in stock, with the 4th to come in when the next vintage is released. There are 2 roses and 1 white wine.

The Pilgrims Way Rose is made from 100% Pinot Noir, from the original vineyard, it is a bright, zippy and fragrant wine, with flavours of grapefruit and raspberry. It has good bursting acidity and a well-balanced finish.

The Hedgerow Rose is made from 100% Pinot Meunier Rose, and is smooth and fruity, with flavours of wild strawberry, ripe summer berries and a candied red apple. The fragrance of the wine evokes springtime English Hedgerows in full bloom. The wine is ever so slightly off-dry with a complex and structured finish.

The Woodland white is made from 100% Chardonnay and is fresh, fruity and complex from some ageing. There is an underlining dose of flint minerality and zippy acidity, with notes of citrus fruit and honeysuckle flavours. The wine is partially aged for 6 months in oak barrels, so it gives layers of complexity.

All three of these wines are available for £19.50 (Mix 6 Price), which is exceptional value for the quality of the wine. They have recently opened a tasting room and tours at the vineyard, so are the perfect place to learn more about them, whilst enjoying a delicious glass of wine during the summer.