Bluestone Vineyards win Decanter World Wine Awards gold

Bluestone Vineyards, based in Cholderton near Stonehenge, is celebrating a decade since its first vines were planted - along with a gold medal win at the Decanter World Wine Awards, the world's most respected wine competition.

Its Premier Reserve 2018, scored 95 points out of 100 and with the tasting notes calling it "exceptional", is the latest in a growing list of accolades for the family-run vineyard.

Bluestone Premier Reserve 2018. (Image: Bluestone Vineyards)

Nat McConnell, who co-founded Bluestone with his brother Toby, said: "When we planted in 2016, plenty of people were sceptical about the quality English wine could reach.

"Ten years on, with some real successes behind us, I'd like to think we've made our case.

"Our vineyard has proven it can grow exceptional fruit, and it means a lot to have that recognised by Decanter."

The vineyard, which began as a 10-acre plot on the family's rare breeds farm, has become one of Wiltshire’s most celebrated wine producers.

Its limited-release English sparkling wines have built a loyal following among critics and enthusiasts alike.

This latest gold medal win comes just a year after Bluestone’s Blanc de Noirs 2019 won a rare platinum medal at the same awards.

Nat and Toby McConnell. (Image: Bluestone Vineyards)

Nat said: "More people are seeking out English vineyards than ever, and English Wine Week is the ideal time to come and see for yourself what we're doing here.

"I'm proud of what we've built, and I can't wait to see what the next 10 years bring."

English Wine Week runs from June 20 to 28 and encourages people across the UK to explore and support their local vineyards.

As part of the celebration, Bluestone is offering free self-guided vineyard tours and additional tastings as part of its Signature Guided Tour & Tasting.

Bookings can be made online at bluestonevineyards.co.uk.

A range of tours and tastings are available to book throughout the year, the tasting room is open for walk-ins Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 5.30pm, and visitors can purchase the full range of Bluestone’s award-winning wines through the website.

A vineyard spokesperson said: "English Wine Week is the perfect time for locals to discover their nearest vineyard, enjoy a glass or two of award-winning Wiltshire wine, and perhaps discover their new favourite fizz being grown right on their doorstep."