With its commanding views over the River Derwent, Derwent Estate is a bright and jolly affair, but don’t let the jovial staff and atmosphere make you doubt Derwent’s discipline and commitment to producing fine wines. In a region perhaps best known for Pinot Noir, their 2016 Calcaire Pinot Noir is a masterpiece – wickedly smooth and beguilingly complex. Really, a wicked, wicked wine that demands your full attention. But perhaps it was the 2019 Sauv Blanc that impressed us the most. When was the last time we loved a Sauv Blanc? Such an engaging drop and not what you’d expect in the very best of ways.  Their Riesling and sparkling wine also deserve honourable mention.

It is unusual to thoroughly enjoy four different wines at one stop.  That having been the case for us at Derwent Estate, we recommend you check it out for yourself 🙂  And if you’re into scenic stops, the serene river view is memorable.