Celebrating 50 Years Of Bolney Wine Estate

In 2022, Bolney Wine Estate proudly celebrated a landmark achievement – 50 years of winemaking.

It was a momentous year that honoured our rich heritage, our passion for English wine, and the community that has supported us every step of the way. From exclusive tours and seasonal dining to limited-edition wines, the celebrations brought together friends old and new at our Sussex Estate.

As we look back on that incredible milestone, we’re reminded of how far we’ve come – and we’re excited for what lies ahead.
Thank you for being part of our journey.

1972: Where the Bolney Wine Estate story began

Rodney and Janet Pratt were pioneers of their time and all that Bolney is today is testament to their grit and determination to go against the grain to fulfil their vision.  Rodney, a chemical engineer who continued his professional career in the rubber industry alongside his vine growing, describes how he came to discover his passion for winemaking during placement at Gutenberg University, ‘We spent most of our six months in the vineyards of Louis Guntrum. He was the person who showed us all, there was a difference between Niersteiner Domtal, Liebfraumilch and Mateus rosé and real wine.’

Back on British soil, Rodney had a vision. “I had this marvellous idea – let’s go and find somewhere to live that’s got a few acres of ground and we can plant a vineyard, and I shall retire at 45.” With Janet’s support, they purchased a run-down smallholding, on the outskirts of the village of Bolney, north-west of Burgess Hill – and over 50 years transformed the Estate into what it is today.