Toppesfield Vineyard is a small Essex vineyard on a chalk and clay hillside, selling wine by appointment at its own Wine Centre alongside vineyard tours, tastings and luxury holiday accommodation.
Jane and Peter Moore bought the land next to their house in the winter of 2011, and marked out the vineyard the following winter with site and variety advice from Duncan McNeill of McNeill Vineyard Management. The ground is a chalk subsoil under a clay loam, and the vines -- mainly Bacchus, chosen for its gooseberry and elderflower character in a cool climate, and the early-ripening Pinot Noir Précoce for rosé -- sit in a valley that was heavily planted with vines in Roman times: in the 1800s, the remains of a Roman centurion were found in the field now under vine, along with his sword blade and a metal wine vase.
Cellar door tastings
Toppesfield wines are available at the Cellar Door by appointment only, since the Wine Centre is often booked for luxury holiday breaks. Call or email ahead to check availability. There is no walk-in tasting.
Amenities
Address
Bradfields, Harrow Hill, Toppesfield, Halstead, CO9 4LXGetting there
Nearest station: Braintree · 8.9 mi
Opening hours
Hours not available or by appointment only
Winery opening hours often vary, so it is always worth checking ahead if you are planning a visit.
