Set just outside of Wickham, Quob Park Estate is the latest vineyard to join Hampshire’s collection

When it comes to English Sparkling Wine, Hampshire is becoming a county of great importance. With its high-quality vineyards making the most of the warmer climate and chalk soil; the potential for replicating Champagne ‘best-in-class’ conditions is real.

No wonder then that entrepreneur Rob Terry is seizing the opportunity for a bite of the er, grape... with his 170-acre Quob Park Estate just outside of Wickham.

Having so far planted 15 acres of vines, and with sustainable and organic methods at the heart of his planning, Rob’s vineyard is a budding venture which could quickly become a real trailblazer in the county. Investing in lakes to supply an irrigation system to protect the vines from frost as well as plans for an orchard to provide fruit for food and wine pairings, Rob’s ambitions are exciting.

Five years on from planting and Quob Park Estate are finally ready to launch their first bottles. We were invited down for a socially distanced tasting to try out the Blanc de Blancs and the Rosé Cuvée against market leading brands of Champagne; an arduous task but someone has to do it.

Rob’s initial nervousness subsided as soon as the smiles emerged on our faces. The Rosé Cuvée more than stood up to the Perrier Jouet, but with its chalky salinity, was distinctive of the soil in which the grapes have been grown.

The Blanc de Blancs was crisp with refreshing acidity and truly showcased the Chardonnay on the estate. Rob’s hospitality was generous and welcoming. The estate’s chef created delicious canapes to match the wines, and Rob’s office with vast dining table was spacious enough for social distancing.

Talking about the membership options available at Quob Park, he said, “It’s the closest you can get to owning your own vines.” With three different levels to the Wine Club starting from £30 and raising to £112, member benefits include bottles of wine, discounts on purchases and exclusive access to events and tastings at the vineyard.It’s a great way to stay involved with the vineyards progress, or perhaps even helping out with harvesting. Rob is keen that customers feel some ownership of the wines he has put so much passion in to, and with an infectious enthusiasm, is the perfect person to share the story.

Along with his wife Tracey, Rob is hopeful that these new additions to Hampshire’s winescape will be well received. The Blanc de Blancs, Classic Cuvée and Rosé Cuvée are all available to buy online and through The Wine Club now. Find out more here

EXCLUSIVE OFFER - Quob Park are offering the first 50 applicants a free Try-All of their wines, saving £35. Use code HL-TRY-ALL when booking online Also get free enrolment to The Wine Club by using code HL-FREE-ENROL here

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