Denbies vineyard expands to Sauvignon Blanc

Published: 08 April, 2010

England's largest vineyard, Denbies Wine Estate in Dorking, Surrey is to expand its portfolio with three hectares of Sauvignon Blanc.

The move comes as part of the estate's overall strategy to move into more premium dry white wine styles rather than following others down the sparkling route.

The vineyard has a dozen wines in its range at the moment and has chosen Clone 108 on Gravesac rootstocks due to their early ripening and limestone tolerance.

John Worontschak, consulting winemaker, emphasises the inevitable risk with the plans but remains convinced of success. He said: "Three hectares, although small in terms of Denbies overall size, is larger than the average English Vineyard! We are confident with this great site that we will achieve full ripeness."

He believes this type of innovation is key to future success for the 24-year-old company. Worontschak added: "the wine world has moved on enormously and we are moving with it."

Chris White, managing director said: "These are exciting times for Denbies, we have planted many varieties here that have been considered a risk, 20 years ago pinot noir was the major example, and now it's one of England's premier varietals."

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