Embracing British wine

In case you thought Valentine's Day was the only reason to celebrate with a delicious glass of wine in February, we've got great news. February 18th is National Drink Wine Day - and in honour of the occasion, we've brought together a list of award-winning, inspiring and new discoveries from across the UK.

The British wine industry is going from strength to strength, with a cool climate helping the vines ripen over a longer period. There are over 500 vineyards in England and Wales, and many of them are creating internationally award winning wines.

Cornwall

Fertile soil and gorgeous sunshine have helped Cornwall to build a reputation for delicious home-grown produce and culinary delights. No wonder, then, that it is also home to some award-winning wines, including the 2016 World Champion, Camel Valley.

Camel Valley are also producers of some of the finest British Fizz. Their 2013 Pinot Noir Rose Brut won gold at the Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships, so it will come as no surprise that British Fizz is growing in reputation and has been acknowledged by some experts to be better than Champagne. You have a great opportunity to try Camel Valley's prize winner when you stay at Deerpark - it's the fizz in our Fizz and Chocolates!

We are proud to support the local industry, wherever we are based. Deerpark's General Manager, Stuart, recently caught up with Sam Lindo, Camel Valley Winemaker and Chairman of the UK Vineyard Association, to discover more about the growth of British Fizz.

West of England

Explore the hills and valleys of the west of England and you'll soon discover Three Choirs Vineyard - 30 hectares of vines set in the rolling Cotswold countryside. The vineyard produces varieties of red, white, rose and sparkling wine. If you are a devoted wine lover, then they also have the perfect gift - adopt and name your own vine. It's the first step to owning your very own vineyard.

Another family run vineyard, close to Forest of Dean, is the Ancre Hill Estate, a relatively new business started in April 2006. Despite being one of the smaller vineyards, Ancre Hill produces an impressive selection of wines, including a sparkling rose, and is well worth a visit.

If you are looking for a taste of England and Wales, then visit the United Kingdom Vineyards Association for an interactive map for more locally grown British wines.

South of England

There are a surprising number of vineyards in the South of England, so it's a great place to visit for groups planning a tasting tour of British wines. Close to Blackwood Forest you'll find Hattingley Valley, another producer of award winning British Fizz, some of which is fermented in Burgundian oak barrels.

Then there is the family owned Danebury Vineyards, with their "distinctly English" white wines, and Exton Park Vineyard, whose sparkling wine was named one of the best English wines by the Independent last year. Add in Hambledon Vineyard, who have teamed up with us to offer tours of their facility, and there is plenty of choice for your group adventure.

East Anglia

Near Thorpe Forest you'll find Wyken Vineyard, ably demonstrating that a smaller size doesn't prevent them producing award winning wines. Take a walk through their seven acres of vineyard before tasting a delicious dry white Sauvignon Blanc from the on-site restaurant.

The north of England

Vineyards are not limited to the south of England. Head north and you'll discover more intrepid entrepreneurs, bringing their own unique taste to British wines.

Escape for some time together in a forest cabin on the edge of the scenic Yorkshire Moors. After a romantic evening walk through the woodland, relax in the hot tub or light the log fire, and enjoy a bottle from the Yorkshire Heart vineyard, producers of a variety of wines and also home to a micro-brewery, for those seeking a change of pace.

Finally, pop into Ryedale Vineyards, possibly the most northern vineyard in England. The weather clearly doesn't faze them, though, with an impressive list of awards for their Yorkshire wines.

With so many vines and flavours to choose from, it's no surprise that British Wine is fast gaining a reputation for quality and taste. Which wine will you choose for National Drink Wine Day?