Bookers Vineyard

Bookers Vineyard began life 30 years ago on three acres planted with Muller Thurgau grapes. There are now seven acres matured and six more planted with a total of nine different varieties of grape. Planting is ongoing and they expect to have 24 acres planted by 2005/6. Chardonnay and Rondo dominate the vineyard, but also cultivated are Pinot Noir, Dornfelder and Dunkelfelder for reds, and Wurzer, Schonburger, Muller Thuragu and Pinot Gris for whites.

In 2003, 16,000 bottles were produced. Most were sold from the vineyard, but also to local outlets such as pubs, restaurants and hotels. The vineyard hosts booked wine tours, and tastings with or without a meal. As a working vineyard they offer a range of wine tastings and informative lectures based on particular interests. A typical tour includes a stroll around the vineyard, a winery tour, and a tutored tasting of five or six wines. More informally, visitors are always welcome to walk around the vineyard.

Bookers Vineyard is situated ten miles south of Crawley, on the A23. It also offers facilities for functions and conferences, which can be fully catered.

• Open: Monday to Saturday 0900-1700. No entrance charge.
• Guided tours: £7.50 including tasting.