FROM soft sparking Rosé to delicious Pinot Noir, the vineyards of Hampshire are brimming with sensational vintages, which is why for the very first time this year Vineyards of Hampshire have launched a new summer Cellar Door Experience.

The initiative will see Hampshire’s seven vineyards - among them Hattingley Valley at Lower Wield, near Medstead, Jenkyn Place at Bentley, and Exton Park Vineyard, open their doors to visitors once a month on a Friday and Saturday, from Friday, May 18, to Saturday, September 8, for the opportunity to taste their wines and purchase directly from the vineyard shop.

Tourists and locals alike are being invited to explore the vineyards and taste a glass or two from the cellar. Due to the vineyards’ proximity to each other, Vineyards of Hampshire is encouraging people to make a day of it and traverse the countryside visiting a number of them (none alcoholic beverages will be available for drivers).

Commenting on the programme, Caroline Stevens, sales and marketing manager at Danebury Vineyards said: “We’re incredibly pleased to see months of planning come to fruition with the launch of Cellar Door. At a time when English wine tourism is flourishing, this new initiative showcases seven of Hampshire’s leading vineyards and gives visitors the chance to experience a variety of vintages without needing to book a place on an official vineyard/winery tour.

“We hope that Cellar Door will help boost visitation to the vineyards, which will result in the event been extended and expanded in years to come.”

Vineyards of Hampshire have also announced dates for the sixth annual Sparkling Wine Festival which will take place on Sunday, July 22, at Raimes Vineyards, Tichborne, near Alresford.

Visitors can sample over 12 premium English sparkling and still wines and enjoy local fare from Hampshire food producers and street food stalls. All located under marquees set in the beautiful English countryside.

Tickets are £12 per person.

Further details regarding the Cellar Door Experience and Vineyards of Hampshire Festival can be found at www.vineyardsofhampshire.co.uk

•Most vineyards will offer the Cellar Door Experience free of charge and some vineyards will only be on Fridays. All dates can be found online.