English wine is not only winning awards against some of the world’s most famous names in the world of wine, but now it also boasts its very own wine tour from London.The very first English Wine Tasting Tour took place last Sunday 31st May, the perfect end to English Wine Week. After all the celebrations of English Wine throughout the week, it seems only fitting that it should end with a visit to where it all begins.Nicola Boarer, Founder English Wine Tasting Tours said ‘’The first tour appealed to a real mixed bag. Some cool 20 somethings who had heard about English Wine, but hadn’t really tried it. A couple on secondment from Korea, who wanted to make the most of their time in England and get out and enjoy all that it has to offer. Some Kiwi’s who’d done wine tours in Australia and New Zealand, and wanted to see how English Wine compared and then the foodies who quite simply love good food and wine.’’This only epitomised the fact that English Wine has a far reaching appeal, young, old, the patriotic English, tourists and this new thing called #WineTourism!‘’Since I first started telling people about my idea to offer English Wine Tasting Tours I’ve had a really positive response. There’s a real push to support English producers and everyone I meet is keen to get behind English Wine. It seems to appeal to such a broad range of people. The ethos of the Wine Tour is positively English, so lots of people want to bring friends and family who are visiting from abroad, Londoners, Hen-Dos and lots of companies wanting to take clients on a true English adventure’’ says Nicola Boarer.The Wine tours start from a central London location, with the recent Kent Tour starting at London Bridge. It then heads off to The Hush Heath Estate, famous for the Balfour Brut Rosé which is served on BA first class and the Orient Express. The group of English wine tasters were not disappointed, with a show of hands declaring that The Balfour Brut Rosé was better than any Champagne they have ever tried.All tours include a gourmet lunch (you need one with all that wine tasting) and The Goudhurst Inn did not disappoint. Lunch was enjoyed by all, but it has to be said anyone who didn’t order the fish and chips or burger had what is known as ‘food envy’ – it just looked so good.The next stop was The Chapel Down Winery, probably one of the most well known and popular brands of English Wine (stocked in Waitrose). Once more the group of English Wine Tasters were impressed. So much so that even the Kiwi proclaimed the ‘bacchus grape’ tasted as good as her native ‘sauvignon blanc’. A compliment to English wine if ever I heard one.The Wine Tasting tours give people the chance to really enjoy a day out from London, visiting real English Vineyards without having to worry about who’s driving.“I’ve had a great day out. I’ve learnt all about the winemaking process, and tasted so many great English Wines. I’ll definitely convert from champagne to English sparkling wine’’ said Ben G, from London a member of the first English Wine Tasting Tour.English Wine Tasting Tours run regular tours from central London and also create tailor made tours for companies, groups and hen parties throughout the South East. It’s the perfect day out for food and wine lovers, without the hassle of organising it yourself.To find out more about the tours or book your place visit www.EnglishWineTastingTours.co.uk Special early bird offer, tickets cost just £89 and include return travel from and to London, Vineyard tours and wine tastings, and lunch. All tour members also receive a 10% discount off of any purchases made at both Vineyards.
