East Anglia, an ancient Anglo-Saxon territory, is now gaining recognition as a prominent player in England's expanding wine industry. This region, encompassing Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex, and Cambridgeshire, has historically been celebrated for its quintessential English charm and diverse natural landscapes. Recently, however, its viticultural potential has come to the forefront, challenging perceptions and establishing it as a serious contender in both still and sparkling wine production. Many of these vineyards are relatively new, with significant plantings occurring as recently as 2017, underscoring the dynamic and rapid growth of the area's winemaking scene. A recent collective showcasing in London drew considerable interest, indicating a growing curiosity and demand for wines from this once 'under the radar' region.

Among the notable establishments is Tuffon Hall Vineyard in North Essex, a place lauded as 'England's greatest tasting room' by author Ed Dallimore. Originally an arable farm, the Crowther family, now in their fourth generation, diversified into wine in 2011. Inspired by New Zealand's cellar door culture, they transformed 12 acres of their vast estate into vineyards. They initially planted Bacchus, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay with an eye towards premium sparkling wines, later adding Pinot Noir in 2017 to expand into still varieties. A recent addition includes Cabernet Noir planted in 2023. Their wines, often named after the family's children, include the 'Amelie' Bacchus, 'Beatrice' Pinot Noir Rosé, and 'Charlotte' Blanc de Noirs sparkling Rosé. A particularly noteworthy recent release is the limited edition 2023 Pinot Gris. Beyond wine production, Tuffon Hall hosts supper clubs and weddings in its historic 16th-century Threshing Barn, complemented by charming rural shepherd's huts equipped with wood-fired hot tubs.

Further into South Norfolk, Flint Vineyard has become a leading producer of Charmat-style sparkling wine, despite originally intending to focus on still wines. Founder Ben Witchell, who transitioned from an IT career to winemaking after studies at Plumpton and an inspiring visit to New Zealand, adopted the Charmat method when presented with an irresistible parcel of fruit. The winery now boasts dedicated Charmat equipment. This year marks the release of their still single-vineyard Chardonnay, sourced from Martin’s Lane Vineyard in Essex’s Crouch Valley, a tribute to Roy Martin, a founding partner whose contributions significantly aided Essex's rise as a premium wine region. Their still wine portfolio also features the textural Fumé Blanc, the fresh Silex blend, and a silky Pinot Noir Précoce. Witchell's innovative spirit is evident in the presence of a granite egg in the winery, signifying a continuous pursuit of experimentation and learning. The vineyard also has ambitious plans for expansion, including new plantings and a range of hospitality offerings such as weddings, street food events, and a daily small plates and wine bar.

Venturing to East Norfolk, Chet Valley Vineyard offers a rustic experience, welcoming visitors from April onwards to its barn-like headquarters overlooking the vines. Owner and winemaker John Hemmant views Norfolk as a winemaking frontier, balancing higher temperatures with climatic instability. Sustainability is central to Chet Valley’s ethos; they collaborate with the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, rewilding one-third of their acreage. Their commitment to biodiversity is reflected in their wine names, such as Skylark and Red Kite, inspired by a PhD student’s bird charting in their vineyards. They cultivate traditional varietals like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, alongside fungus-resistant Piwi varieties such as Solaris, Schönburger, and Cabernet Noir. Their 'Skylark Brut', a blend of Phoenix and Seyval Blanc, is a standout, combining aromatic qualities with a crisp acidity. Currently, Chet Valley holds the distinction of being East Anglia’s largest traditional method producer. The vineyard’s purpose-built tasting room, complete with a balcony, is open from April to October, with various food and fizz events scheduled throughout the summer.

In North Norfolk lies Burn Valley Vineyard, where gently sloping, south-facing vines are located just six miles from the sea. Tour guide and former wine merchant David Sleight emphasizes the unique microclimate that contributes to their distinctive wines. Burn Valley produces two sparkling wines and a range of Piwi whites, including two expressions of Solaris: one fermented and aged in Hungarian oak, and another in stainless steel with lees aging. However, it is their red wines that truly shine, particularly the Chalk Bed Reserve, a robust Rondo and Regent blend aged in Hungarian oak, which has garnered multiple WineGB awards in 2024. Their 2024 Marsh Rosé was named Wine of the Year at the Wine GB East Anglia Awards, where their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir also received accolades for best white and red wines respectively. Additionally, they produce a Solaris late harvest wine, influenced by a former cellar hand with expertise in Tokaji. The vineyard is open daily except Tuesdays, and its catering arm organizes various summer events, providing a holistic visitor experience.

At Little Finborough, Suffolk, Burnt House Vineyard, once solely an arable farm, has emerged as a significant wine producer, recognized for its impeccably packaged and approachable wines. Vines were first planted in 2017, and the vineyard’s inaugural vintage was in 2021. Initially supplying grapes to Ridgeview in Sussex, Burnt House now crafts its own labels, including a refined Burnt House Brut (currently 2021 vintage), a Bacchus, a Pinot Noir red, an elegant Pinot Meunier rosé, and a Chablis-esque Chardonnay. They have also recently planted Pinot Gris, anticipating it to be a varietal to watch in the region. The estate’s produce can be sampled at their Cellar Door, which offers views of the vines and a distinctive lone oak tree. This sophisticated venue provides wine-paired small plates, cheese, and charcuterie, and is open from Friday to Sunday, with additional events listed on their website.

Lastly, while not a vineyard itself, Gutters & Stars in Cambridge, founded by the Plumpton-trained winemaker Chris Wilson, is an essential part of East Anglia's wine narrative. Operating from a charming 1847 Windmill, Wilson, also a wine and music writer, crafts progressive wines using various techniques, including second-use barrels, a concrete egg, and classic stainless steel. Since its inception in 2020, Gutters & Stars has produced 21,000 bottles, with Chardonnay being a particular focus for Wilson, who emphasizes the importance of patient maturation for English Chardonnay. Recent releases include the 2024 Ortega 'Corridor of Uncertainty' and 'Punka', an MVB rosé blend. The lineup also features a single barrel of 2023 Pinot Noir, 'Dark End of the Street', made with grapes from long-term partner grower Missing Gate in Essex, reflecting an Italian Alto Adige style. Wilson is part of the 'Plumpton class of 2013', a cohort of influential winemakers who continue to shape the English wine scene.

The burgeoning wine industry in East Anglia demonstrates a vibrant blend of tradition, innovation, and dedicated craftsmanship. From family-owned estates embracing sustainable practices to pioneering producers experimenting with diverse varietals and winemaking methods, the region offers a captivating journey for wine enthusiasts. The increasing recognition and numerous awards highlight East Anglia's growing prominence, inviting visitors to explore its unique vineyards and savor the evolving tastes of English still and sparkling wines.