The all-weather outdoor space designed by Andy Sturgeon is set to open in Sussex this summer
Ridgeview Wine Estate in West Sussex, is set to open a new outdoor visitor experience crafted by RHS Chelsea Flower Show gold medal winning designer Andy Sturgeon.
The English sparkling wine pioneers, who have been making wine from their Ditchling site for over 25 years, are among the first to have been accredited under Wines GB Sustainability scheme and this new project is set to deliver net gains for biodiversity across the estate.
Due to open late Summer 2022, the new all-weather venue will feature a series of covered terraces that take pride of place alongside Ridgeview’s Chardonnay vineyard with glorious views across the South Downs National Park.
“We have worked closely with Ridgeview and the South Downs National Park to design a garden which has biodiversity at its core,” explains designer Andy Sturgeon.
“Multi-stem hawthorns and clipped domes of yew sit amongst a palette of native plants which anchor the gardens into their setting at the edge of a woodland. Closely controlled lighting systems respect the local ecology and the Dark Skies policy of the park and permeable paving and sustainable drainage solutions divert storm water away from drains.”
Putting Sussex on the world wine tourism map
The space will offer visitors wine tastings, on-site dining, tours and retail and Ridgeview will work with other likeminded Sussex producers and local hospitality with the aim of putting the county on the world wine tourism map.
Ridgeview’s CEO Tamara Roberts adds: “Our focus will be on championing locally grown seasonal Sussex food, showcased alongside our portfolio of sparkling wines to highlight the best that our gorgeous county produces, where you can eat and drink the South Downs.”
