Gusbourne Estate
Gusbourne Estate VineyardKenardington Road
Appldore
Ashford
Kent
TN26 2BE
Phone: 01233 758666
Owner - Andrew Weeber
Vineyard Manager - Jon Pollard 07919 131233
Vines
Gusbourne- A classic vineyard in historic Kent
History
The ancient coastline of southern Kent was once far inland from its current position. Most of the land behind Dungeness has been drained since 4th century. The coastal villages of Appledore, Kenardington and Hamstreet lost their sea views, and instead gaze out over the flat area of Romney Marsh.The government, fearful of invasion, devised the Royal Miltary canal along the line of the old coast. Built between 1799 and 1806, as a deterrant to French troops, it never saw serious miltary use, and even its commercial operations ended in 1909. It is now owned by the National trust
Pictures - Cherry Garden in June
The southern winelands
To the east of this area, at Tenterden, is one the largest wine operations in Britain- the Chapel Down winery. This, and nearby Harbourne, have long proved that the area is viable for vines. At Appledore Heath, on one of the hills just by the old coast, the 500 acre Gusbourne Estate is now creating a new vineyard. Here they are planting only classic varieties designed to make a high quality sparkling wine. Plantings so far have beenNearly 40% of the 500 acre estate comprises well drained, south facing slopes suitable for viticulture.
