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Key Takeaways
- Wiston Estate Winery earned a major tourism award, reinforcing Horsham’s status as a wine hotspot.
- Sustainability efforts, including solar power and rain-water harvesting, are central to the vineyard’s success.
- Wine tourism in the South Downs has surged by 90 % over the past decade, benefiting local businesses.
- Community partnerships and local sourcing amplify economic impact across Horsham.
- Future expansion plans promise more green innovation and visitor experiences.
Table of Contents
Award Overview
In a recent Horsham Council business tour, Wiston Estate Winery was presented with the Tourism South East – Beautiful South Awards 2024/25 (Silver). Councillor Jane Richards called the accolade “a testament to the vineyard’s pioneering spirit,” citing its top-tier visitor experience, product quality and sustainable ethos.
“Awards like this shine a light on the remarkable rural enterprises that keep Horsham’s economy vibrant.” – Cllr Richards
Sustainability Drive
Powered by solar panels and guided by the South Downs Climate Action Grant, the vineyard operates with a clear goal: carbon neutrality by 2026. Other eco-initiatives include:
- Rain-water harvesting systems that save 500,000 litres annually.
- Cover-cropping to enrich soils and cut fertiliser use.
- Reusable packaging that trims plastic waste by 40 %.
These practices not only protect the picturesque chalk hills of the South Downs National Park but also enhance grape quality, reinforcing the region’s global reputation for crisp sparkling wines.
Business Success Factors
The vineyard’s market-oriented approach has paid dividends:
- Adapting swiftly to evolving consumer tastes.
- Leveraging the growing prestige of English sparkling wine.
- Branding centred on the protected South Downs terroir.
- Partnerships with local chefs, hotels and tour operators.
Collectively, these steps have boosted turnover by 25 % in the last year alone.
Wine Tourism Impact
Vineyard acreage in the South Downs has soared by 90 % over the past decade, mirroring surging visitor numbers. From guided cellar tours to farm-to-table menus at the estate’s Chalk Restaurant, tourists spend an average of £145 per visit—money that ripples through local cafés, B&Bs and artisan shops.
Community Engagement
The winery’s success story is also a community tale:
- Locally sourced produce keeps food miles low.
- Joint events with neighbouring farms create seasonal footfall.
- Educational tastings donate proceeds to village charities.
As a result, employment in rural Horsham has risen by 7 %—a statistic the Council credits largely to wine tourism.
Future Outlook
Expansion is on the horizon. Plans include an additional 20 acres of vines, a new renewable-energy hub and interactive eco-trails for school groups. “Growth will never outrun our green principles,” notes estate director Tom Surgey, promising that innovation will remain rooted in sustainability.
FAQs
What makes Horsham ideal for vineyards?
The region’s chalky soils mirror those of Champagne, offering excellent drainage and mineral richness that produce vibrant, high-acid grapes perfect for sparkling wines.
Can visitors tour the winery year-round?
Yes. Guided tours run daily, with winter barrel tastings and summer vineyard walks. Booking ahead is recommended during harvest season.
How does the estate measure its carbon footprint?
Annual audits track energy use, water savings and waste reduction. Results are published in a public sustainability report each spring.
Are there volunteering opportunities?
Absolutely. From harvest helpers to eco-trail guides, locals can sign up via the estate’s website and receive training plus a complimentary tasting session.
Where can I buy the wine locally?
Bottles are stocked in Horsham’s independent wine shops, select supermarkets and, of course, at the estate cellar door.