Being so close to our French neighbours, Cornwall shares the same unique conditions which make for perfect grape growing. There are some fantastic vineyards to visit, whether to pick up a few bottles for when the holiday is over, or for a tour and wine tasting. To cleanse your taste buds and cheers – or as we say in Cornwall, yeghes da!
Polgoon Vineyard
This is a lovely little vineyard close to Penzance, overlooking Mount’s Bay, was established in 2004. You can go on a tour which lasts around 90 minutes where you’ll learn all the workings of a vineyard (plus the cider orchard) and all the production processes, concluding with a tasting of course! Booking is essential if you’re planning on visiting in August.
Polgoon Vineyard & Orchard, Rosehill, Penzance TR20 8TE | 01736 333 946 | www.polgoon.com
Camel Valley Vineyard
Probably the most famous vineyard in Cornwall, this beautiful haven started back in 1989 and is set on the gorgeous slopes of the Camel Valley near Bodmin. Using traditional methods, the grapes thrive on the warm, sun-drenched slopes. You can go on a ‘Grand Tour & Tasting’ which takes place every Wednesday evening followed by wine tasting on the terrace (between April and October). A guided tour takes place every day during the week between April and September.
Camel Valley Ltd, Nanstallon, Bodmin PL30 SLG | 01208 77959 | www.camelvalley.com
Trevibban Mill Vineyard
A stones’ throw from Padstow, this pretty, flower-strewn vineyard is certified organic by the Soil Association. With a bar, wine tasting and tours every Wednesday at 4pm, this is a lovely afternoon out. Every Sunday at 10.30am there is a ‘Grand Walking Tour’ which includes a tour of the vineyard, orchard and lakeside and you’ll learn about organic wine production. This is followed by a tasting of seven wines followed by lunch at the restaurant.
Trevibban Mill Vineyard, Dark Lane, St Issey PL27 7SE | 01841 541 413 | www.trevibbanmill.com
Knightor Winery
Producing wines from grapes grown in English vineyards and vines at Portscatho and Seaton on the south Cornish coast. Specialising in still and sparkling white and rose wines, the owners like to stick to the inherent character of English wines produced in a cooler climate. Tours and tastings can be booked anytime by prior arrangement or you can attend one of the scheduled tours which run from April to October.
Knightor Winery, Trethurgy, PL26 8YQ | 01726 851 101 | www.knightor.com
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