Sussex Wine Tasting

Discover the Rathfinny English Sparkling wine portfolio. We offer a range of wine tasting experiences to suit you, from drop-in tastings to informative tours and tastings and private events.

“When you know the place, and the people, a wine will never taste the same again. It can only taste better.” Oz Clarke, British wine writer.

Wine Tasting Rathfinny
Available daily

Drop-in Wine Tasting

Our Cellar Door shop, located within our Winery on our Sussex Wine Estate, is open daily (excluding some bank holidays) for complimentary drop-in wine tastings and shopping. This is a great opportunity to try our wines before your purchase. A member of our experienced Cellar Door team will be delighted to offer an introduction to our wine at the tasting bar. Tastings are short and relaxed, lasting up to 10 minutes. We always recommend joining a guided tour if you wish to find out more about the Rathfinny Wine Estate and sample a broader range of our wines. Please note, drop-in tastings are subject to availability upon arrival and limited to groups of six.

Dog Friendly Walking Trail
Self-guided walk

The Rathfinny Trail

Why not extend your visit with a walk around the Rathfinny Trail? Pick up a map from the Cellar Door shop and explore the 5km (3.1 mile) route around our Estate all year round. Dogs welcome!

This route can be shortened or extended as you wish. A member of our team will be happy to recommend their favourite walks to you.

You can now treat yourself to a coffee or glass of sparkling at The Hut, open every day, 10am-5pm

Vineyard Tour
Available all year

Tour & Tasting

Our popular, small-group tours and wine tasting experiences are available to book throughout the year. During the 1.45 hour tour, you will be led by an experienced guide who will walk you through the unique story of the Rathfinny Wine Estate – from its conception and first plantings, through to our Traditional Method sparkling winemaking processes and beyond. All tours conclude with a tutored tasting of wines from our portfolio.

There is no expectation to have any prior knowledge about Sussex winemaking, but we guarantee you’ll walk away with some factual gems and a newfound appreciation for Sussex wine. £27.50 per person.

Tasting Room Seasonal Lunch Menu

Lunch and Wine Tasting

Why not extend your stay with a long lunch. This is a great way to relax and experience the full Rathfinny food and wine offering. We serve two and three-course lunches at the Tasting Room every Wednesday – Sunday, Sunday lunches at the Flint Barns and seasonal dining experiences including summer picnics (May-September) and harvest lunches during October. For sample menus and availability, please visit our dining page.

Couples in the Courtyard

Short Break Packages

Did you know we offer resident-only tours and wine tastings for all guests who stay overnight at our Flint Barns bed and breakfast accommodation? Perfect for a midweek getaway or long weekend, our short break packages include everything the Rathfinny Estate has to offer so you can relax and unwind without having to dash home at the end of the day. View our latest package offers and availability on our Flint Barns page.

Rathfinny Vineyard Tour

Private Tour & Wine Tasting Experience

We offer exclusive Vineyard tours and tastings for private groups all year round. During these fun and intimate tours, you will learn the process of how we turn our grapes into Sussex Sparkling wine, followed by a guided tasting of our Sussex wines.

FAQs

Are dogs allowed?

Assistant dogs are always allowed to accompany their owners in all facilities at the Rathfinny Estate. All other dogs are allowed into our Cellar Door shop (if kept on a lead) whilst their owners sample the wines and make their purchases. Dogs are also welcome to accompany you on the Rathfinny Trail walk if kept on the lead at all times. Please note, for hygiene and safety reasons, dogs are not permitted in our restaurants or on tours.

Are children allowed on a tour and tasting?

Due to the alcoholic nature of our product, we discourage children from accompanying adults on our tours. They are welcome to visit the Cellar Door shop, dine in our restaurants and stay in the Flint Barns with a responsible adult but we will not serve them alcohol. We will always ask for proof of age is we suspect an individual is under 25 years of age.

How much is a Tour & Tasting?

Tours may vary in price due to the different experience we offer. Please check the booking calendar for prices.

Do you sell gift vouchers?

You can purchase various gift vouchers on our website. We recommend “The Experience Rathfinny” voucher if you are looking to gift a tour and tasting. This voucher can also be used in our restaurants so it serves multiple purposes. Buy here: http://rathfinnyestate.com/gift-vouchers/

How can I redeem a gift voucher?

Please contact us to redeem your vouchers. At this moment in time, vouchers cannot be redeemed on our website.

Can I book a tour and lunch at the same time?

If you wish to dine in the Tasting Room restaurant, prior to, or following your tour, this must be booked separately in advance and is subject to availability. Book here.

Is there a dress code?

There is no formal dress code at Rathfinny Wine Estate. If you are attending a tour, we always advise you wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear as tours often include a walk into the vineyard.

Are you an accessible venue?

Our Cellar Door shop and restaurants are easily accessible for wheelchair users. We do our very best to accommodate anyone with mobility issues. Please leave a note on your booking form or contact us directly if you have mobility concerns and would like to attend a tour and tasting. Email: CellarDoor@rathfinnyestate.com