English Wine Week returns on 20th June 2026, showcasing that world-class wines are closer to home than expected. Woodchester Valley Vineyard invites wine enthusiasts and lovers to experience the quality and craftsmanship of their award-winning English wines at the family-owned vineyard in the South Cotswolds. Visitors can discover the diverse collection of white, rosé, red, and sparkling wines through various tours, tastings and stays at the vineyard as well as visits to the nearby vineyard shop.
The largest vineyard in the Cotswolds, with a 56-acre estate, Woodchester Valley Vineyard is the most established Cotswold vineyard with its own onsite winery. The vineyard, located in the stunning Stroud valleys and set within the Cotswolds AONB, is inspiring people to support local vineyards while discovering that English wine is now on a par with wines from traditional wine-producing countries. English Wine Week is the perfect opportunity to explore the Gloucestershire winery, which is steeped in history, with one of the Woodchester Valley wines named after a nearby Roman mosaic, and a vineyard in nearby Stonehouse is mentioned in the Domesday Book.
There are a wide range of grape varieties to explore, including Bacchus, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Meunier, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Regent, Seyval, Siegerrebe, Solaris, Sauvignon Blanc and Ortega. Experiences at the vineyard include a Classic Tour and tasting, which offers a relaxed and engaging introduction to the vineyard, winery and wines. While the Premium Tour provides a more in-depth experience, showcasing more of the premium wine range and placing greater emphasis on food and wine pairing. Lunch Hampers can be added to selected experiences, featuring locally sourced produce designed to complement the wines. On selected Fridays, guests can also enjoy Fizz n’ Chips, pairing sparkling wine with a classic fish and chips experience. Every tour is designed to offer guests an insight into the vineyard and winery in a relaxed and engaging environment, while taking in the beauty of the Cotswolds landscape. In addition to the regular tours, during English Wine Week the vineyard will be collaborating with the Oyster Buoys for the ultimate food pairing of sparkling wine and oysters on the evening of Monday 22nd June. A wine and pizza pairing event will also take place on Sunday 28th June.
The vineyard was established in 2007 by Fiona and Niall Shiner, something that began as an experimental planting by Fiona to test the area’s suitability for wine grapes. Now spanning 3 vineyard sites across Woodchester, Stonehouse, and Amberley, with 56 acres under vine and 11 grape varieties cultivated to create a diverse portfolio of wines that express the unique character of the Cotswold landscape. A dedicated winery was added ahead of the 2016 harvest, enabling full production on site and marking a significant step in the vineyard’s evolution.
This year, Woodchester Valley celebrates 10 years since the winery was established and became single estate, a milestone that reflects a decade of growth, innovation and commitment to producing exceptional English wines. To celebrate, the vineyard will be releasing a Limited Edition wine during English Wine Week from their signature grape, Bacchus – Bacchus Reserve. The wine is a variation on the traditional Bacchus and has been fermented 50% in oak and 50% in stainless steel and is made from some of the oldest vines.
Today, local, national and international visitors explore the estate. With its sweeping views and relaxed atmosphere, the setting is often said to have the charm of the Loire Valley, yet it remains unmistakably a vineyard rooted in the beauty of Woodchester.
 | Visit the website to find out more www.woodchestervalleyvineyard.co.uk/ |
