Yet another smashing visit to a vineyard organised by Carolyn! On one of the few wet days this summer, we set off for Mousehall Distillery and Vineyard in East Sussex, a relative newcomer to the English wine scene, to sample some of their wines and gin. We had an excellent afternoon and thoroughly enjoyed the wine on offer and the longest cheeseboard ever!
The Mousehall Country Estate is in a tiny hamlet called Tidebrook, which is within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in a secluded valley on the northern edge of the parish of Mayfield in East Sussex. The estate belongs to the owners of Jordan Wine Estate in South Africa, who had been so impressed by the success of the English vineyards, that they started to search for suitable sites to start their own project here as well. In 2017 they discovered the historic Mousehall, first recorded in the Domesday book in 1086 and since then a working farm with a prosperous history, but then a neglected and over-grown property. Now it must be one of the most tranquil and picturesque settings for wine in the UK.
Despite a rather disappointing day weather wise the visit was a real joy, as was the enthusiasm from our lovely and generous hosts Christy and Nick, who are family members. They showed us around the estate and explained the family’s vision for regenerative agriculture and sustainability, which we all felt was commendable and very impressive. Their botanical garden, where they are growing their own juniper, angelica and English coriander seeds and other botanicals for their spirits, was amazing and stunning even in the drizzle! Between showers and tasting we ventured into the vineyard, which is a gently sloping, south facing, one hectare site. They have another five hectares close by. We could see, huddled under the trees, some of their Blackheaded Dorper sheep. These are a South African breed of sheep (Persian Ewe crossed with a Dorset Horned Ram) and are self-shedding and hardy. Nick explained that they play a part in the family’s regenerative farming plan by improving the field and vineyard soil conditions which results in soil carbon deposits. Close by too are nine beehives, another aspect of the family’s concern for the environment, producing their own delicious honey and bought by many members!
Nick led the spirit tasting and explained the workings of their bespoke still which was very impressive. In front of us, we were able to smell from small pots all the different botanicals that are used for their gin which was very instructive and helped us to identify aromas in the glass.
The wines which are labelled under the Tidebrook nomenclature were, for such young vines, showing real potential. The chardonnay was very fresh and citrus driven and although being part oak aged this didn’t mask the intensity and quality of the fruit.
The pinot gris was my preferred wine with again a freshness but with a creamy texture and notes of peach.
Plans for the estate are to make cider and also sparkling wine in the future as they establish themselves. Many of us on the way back with our bottles said we must return a few years down the line and see how they are progressing. I am sure we will.
“Just wanted to say a big thank you for organising such a fabulous vineyard tour yesterday. What a lovely family/company Mousehall are. I really hope they achieve their vision. It would be interesting to visit them again in a few years to see how they had progressed. Great quality wines and spirits. I was impressed by their whole range.”
“Such a lovely place and very welcoming hosts too.”
“An absolutely wonderful afternoon!”
“What a great way to spend a Saturday. Such a lovely place with lovely wine and gin. Thanks for organising Carolyn!”