The property was acquired by the vendors in 2010. Following extensive consultancy advice on the suitability of the site and pre-planting preparation, planting of some 17,000 vines took place in the Spring of 2019. Four varieties were planted including the three traditional sparkling wine varieties (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir (including the early ripening Pinot Noir Precoce) and Pinot Meunier) and a significant amount of Bacchus to provide a still white wine.
Wine making began in 2019. The current range of wines include a Bacchus and a Pinot Rosé. Dillions Bacchus 2020 won silver at the Wine GB 2021 awards, and silver at the IEWA. Dillions Rosé 2020 won an IEWA bronze and was named by Tom Hewson in his 2021 ‘Special Report’ as ‘best still rosé.’ The current wines offer a fantastic base on which to build a distinct style of Sussex Bacchus, and offers the potential for the exciting development of a still red Pinot Noir, sparkling rosé and classic cuvee style in the future.
Matthew Jukes assessment of the Dillions Bacchus in Vineyard Magazine in April 2020 stated “Tasting unlike any Bacchus I have seen before in the UK, Dillions Bacchus proves that new eyes are such a valuable asset in our business. I venture that this wine will convert Bacchus atheists with its unpredictable flavour trail of rhubarb stalks and violets… Fascinating and also memorable, this is a debut […] which will have us all on the edge of our seats.”
The property offers buyers a beautifully renovated Grade II listed farmhouse, guest annexe, range of farm buildings and land extending to some 19.75 acres including the commercial vineyard together with planning consent for a new vineyard building.
Will Banham who heads up vineyard sales for Strutt and Parker says ‘opportunities to buy a vineyard in prime production with such a charming family home are very rare. New entrants are bound to be attracted to Dillions; the house sits in beautiful gardens with far reaching views over the Sussex countryside. The vineyard and award winning wines make this opportunity truly unique.’
