The Rich History of Upperton Vineyards

Nestled in the heart of the South Downs, Upperton Vineyards has established itself as a premier English vineyard, dedicated to producing high-quality sparkling wines. The journey began with the vision of a passionate family committed to viticulture and excellence in winemaking. Over the years, Upperton has garnered numerous accolades, including gold awards from Decanter and the International Wine Challenge, testifying to their dedication and craftsmanship.

Upperton Vineyards was founded with a mission to harness the unique terroir of the South Downs. The family behind Upperton has always believed in the potential of English soil to produce world-class wines. Their commitment to quality and traditional methods has been unwavering since the vineyard's inception.

The vineyard focuses on traditional sparkling wine methods, ensuring that every bottle reflects their meticulous attention to detail and passion for winemaking. This dedication is evident in the numerous awards their wines have won, placing Upperton Vineyards on the map of esteemed wine producers.

Being a family-run business, Upperton Vineyards emphasises a hands-on approach. This personal touch is a cornerstone of their philosophy, ensuring that each step, from grape to bottle, meets their high standards. This familial dedication has allowed them to create wines that are not only exceptional but also embody the heart and soul of their vineyard.

Upperton Vineyards is renowned for its exquisite range of sparkling wines, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for traditional methods. Upperton harnesses the unique terroir of the region to produce sparkling wines that have earned international acclaim. Here’s a closer look at their standout offerings:

Upperton Alia

Alia is a 100% Chardonnay Blanc de Blancs, known for its elegance and finesse. The name "Alia" is derived from Latin, meaning "distinct" or "other," which aptly describes its unique character. This sparkling wine features floral and lemon curd aromas, complemented by mature stone fruit flavours and a creamy texture from malolactic fermentation. The result is a wine with a soft acidity and a sophisticated profile that has won gold at the International Wine Challenge for its 2013 vintage​.

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Upperton Nebula

Nebula is a blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay, reflecting the misty conditions often found at the bottom of the vineyard. This wine is characterized by its pale gold colour with hints of pink. The nose reveals fruit aromas dominated by apple and peach, along with brioche notes. On the palate, it offers crisp green apple and citrus flavours with a full, refreshing finish. Nebula balances rich fruit flavours with autolytic characteristics, making it an excellent example of Upperton’s craftsmanship​.

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Upperton Tenebris

Tenebris, which means "dark" in Latin, is a powerful blend made from Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. This wine features an intense red fruit nose with hints of redcurrants and raspberries, complemented by a spicy note and yeasty overtones. Tenebris is robust and pairs exceptionally well with food, offering a taste explosion of red fruit flavours that make it a standout choice among Upperton’s offerings​.

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Upperton Vineyards’ commitment to excellence has been recognised internationally. Their Alia 2013 sparkling wine, for instance, has won gold in both the Decanter 2017 awards and the International Wine Challenge awards 2017. These accolades highlight the vineyard's success in producing outstanding wines that are celebrated by connoisseurs and critics alike.

For those interested in experiencing the magic of Upperton firsthand, the vineyard offers tours and tastings. Visitors can explore the beautiful South Downs setting, learn about the winemaking process, and taste the exceptional wines that have made Upperton a renowned name in the industry.

Upperton Vineyards stands as a testament to the dedication and passion of its founders. Their journey from a visionary start to becoming award-winning wine producers is a story of perseverance, quality, and family values. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or simply appreciate a good story, Upperton Vineyards is a name worth knowing.