Drift into Kinsbrook Vineyard on a summer day, and you’ll be struck by its laid-back, French vibe. Upturned cable reels act as tables as you sip on a glass of wine feet away from the vines, with the gentle rhythm of some suitably chilled music in the background. It’s one of my favourite places to waste a few hours.
They first planted vines here in 2017 and currently have a total of 56,000 vines planted across three sites. They already have a great range of wines and now they have a brand new, farm shop and eatery in a super stylish barn. So if it’s too cold (or too hot) to while away a few hours in the vines, this is where you should head.
The Kinsbrook farm shop and eatery
Whilst downstairs is groaning with local produce, including, of course, lots of lovely Sussex wine, meats, cheeses, spices and veg, upstairs the large gallery-style eatery is relaxed and chic. A wood burner glows gently in the corner, while a floor-to-ceiling window and balcony overlook the vines. There’s comfy seating, cushions, throws, and a well-stocked bar and kitchen. Happy days indeed.
The eatery has an ever-changing menu to reflect the seasons with as much homegrown, fresh produce as possible. Burrata ( a soft, fresh cheese made from cow’s milk) with radicchio, pear, and pomegranate and a Farro (a high-fibre, high-protein wholegrain wheat that’s similar to barley), squash, and Swiss chard stew hit the spot very nicely for a wholesome lunch, along with some gorgeously fresh focaccia baked in house and pastries from Gwyn’s Bakery in Horsham.
The Kin Wine Flight
For £25 per person, you can also opt for a Five-Wine Flight which is a fantastic way to get to know a little more about the Kinsbrook wines as well as your own personal preferences. There’s enough here to satisfy the more serious wine connoisseur but also to appeal to the novice. Organise a designated driver and try the Kinsbrook Vintage Cuvée 2014, the Beckets Rosé 2016, a Bacchus, a Pinot Gris, and a Précoce. Your host explains a little about each wine, how it’s produced, and what to expect and there are handy tasting notes to help if you have a less-than-expert palate (like mine). It’s hard to choose a favourite although I am a sucker for a vintage cuvée and theirs has been aged on lees since July 2015. It’s a definite winner for Christmas Day (and Boxing Day too for that matter).
On Sunday afternoons they also have a musician either inside or out, depending on the weather. Dogs are welcome too, either inside the eatery or if you fancy a quick walk around the vines. Their current opening hours are: Sunday to Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm and on Friday & Saturday from 9 am to 7 pm. And of course, don’t forget to go home with a little something!
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