Wraxall Vineyard in Somerset, near the vibrant town of Bruton, has just launched its first Sparkling Rosé, perfectly timed for the festive season. This new addition expands their portfolio to five wines, including a sparkling white made in the Traditional Method, a still Bacchus, a still Bacchus Reserve, and a still Early Pinot Noir rosé.
Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, Wraxall Vineyard is one of Somerset’s oldest vineyards. Their multiple-gold-winning Bacchus Reserve has been awarded ‘UK’s Best Bacchus’ and ‘Best Still Wine from a Southwest Vineyard’ at the WineGB 2024 Awards.
The introduction of the Sparkling Rosé marks a significant milestone for owners David and Lexa, capping off a challenging year for UK vineyards. Known for their high-quality rosé and sparkling wines, this latest release is the first sparkling rosé under their stewardship.
The Wraxall Sparkling Rosé, crafted from Pinot Noir grapes harvested in 2021, is an elegant, pale pink wine produced in the Traditional Method. It features aromas of ripe strawberry and red apple, with hints of apricot and brioche. The wine’s acidity is poised and precise, balanced by a soft yet persistent mousse. It is available directly from Wraxall Vineyard, both on-site and online.
Wraxall Vineyard spans 15 acres of mature and new south-facing vines, nurtured by Stevie Potier for over a decade. He works alongside Joel who is an expert viticulturist from Vinescapes, guiding the team throughout the vineyard year. The vineyard has become a community hub, with locals helping during the harvest. The grapes are sent to Ben Smith at Itasca Wines for production – a fantastic winemaker who only works with a select group of small and medium, independent vineyards who are focused on sustainability and quality. Plans are underway to plant more Early Pinot Noir vines in 2025.
The View@Wraxall opened to the public for the first time this year, with a delicious new menu centred around light bites, small plates and sharing boards, and almost everything being sourced from within 15 miles of the vineyard. The seasonally changing menu is designed to pair perfectly with the vineyard’s wine and is ideal for sharing with friends and family, whether outside on the terrace or inside next to the log fire. The new autumn/winter menu includes warming and hearty dishes to fuel tours, tastings and countryside rambles.
Vineyard tours are available Wednesday to Saturday, with tastings offered year-round. New self-guided tastings allow visitors to explore at their own pace, pairing wines with local Barber’s Cheddar.
Wraxall also offers cosy accommodation across three charming cottages overlooking the vines, two of which were converted from the former winery buildings. These can be rented on a self-catering basis, with the vineyard offering the perfect base to immerse yourself in the local area, with the likes of The Newt and Hauser & Wirth on the doorstep.
Every guest receives a welcome hamper including Somerset provisions such as local butter, cheese, milk, bread and a bottle of Wraxall wine. Additions include a Breakfast Hamper, ‘Dinner in the Fridge’ prepared by their chefs, or a private chef to either cook for you in the cottages, or for a private dinner party up at The View@Wraxall.
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