Our Story
In 1991, Will Davenport planted five acres of vines in the Kentish village of Horsmonden.
It marked the beginning of Davenport Vineyards - a venture built on a deep respect for the land, a commitment to sustainability, and a clear vision for producing high-quality English wines.
The Vineyards
Today, our vineyards span 24 acres across five carefully selected sites, each offering a unique combination of soil type and microclimate.
Most are located in Horsmonden, Kent, with a smaller site in Rotherfield, East Sussex.
Over the years, we’ve planted nine grape varieties that thrive in the English climate, giving us the ability to craft wines that reflect their origins with clarity and character.
Our Organic Philosophy
Organic farming has been central to our philosophy from the start. In 2000, we made the decision to convert both our vineyards and winery to organic practices - earning Soil Association certification in 2003. At the time, it was a bold step, but one that has proven essential to the quality and individuality of our wines. Our focus remains on growing healthy vines through natural methods, resulting in fruit of outstanding purity and balance.
In 2022, we expanded further, taking on the management of Hazel Street Farm - owned by Will’s mother. This included 43 acres of non-organic vines and 70 acres of apple orchards. While the grapes from this site are currently sold to another winery, we have begun the transition to organic management, allowing both soil and vines to adapt naturally over time.
For nearly three decades, our original winery in Rotherfield was at the heart of our operations. In 2024, we opened a new, purpose-built winery in Horsmonden to support our growing production. Designed with sustainability in mind, it marks a significant step forward for Davenport Vineyards.
Our work is guided by experience, attention to detail, and a belief in letting the land lead the way. Each wine we produce reflects the place it was grown and the principles we stand by.
Key Moments In Our Journey
First vines planted at Lewes Heath vineyard in Horsmonden.
1991
Our original winery was established; Limney Estate vineyard planted in East Sussex.
1993
Transitioned all vineyards and winery to organic practices; Diamond Fields vineyard planted.
2000
Achieved Soil Association organic certification.
2003
Goudhurst View vineyard established, introducing Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier.
2007
Awarded the Gore-Browne Trophy for best wine variety in Great Britain at the WineGB Awards (previously known as "English Wine of the Year").
2014
Redmoors vineyard planted, increasing our total to 24 acres under vine.
2016
Record harvest prompted plans for winery expansion.
2018
Winner of the Sustainability Drinks Award
2019
Began managing Hazel Street Farm with a long-term plan to convert to organic.
2022
Another record-breaking harvest; construction began on our new winery.
2023
New winery in Horsmonden completed and fully operational for harvest
2024
Plans to open an on site shop in the new winery are underway. Watch this space!