Black Dog Hill

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Black Dog Hill is a family vineyard at the foot of Ditchling Beacon, on chalk littered with prehistoric sea fossils. It takes its name from the phantom black dog said to have roamed the Downs between Westmeston and Ditchling for over a thousand years, carrying souls to the next world. The family grows all three Champagne grapes and makes only vintage sparkling wine, with Dermot Sugrue as winemaker, sold through the vineyard's online shop.

Black Dog Hill is dedicated to producing exceptional vintage English sparkling wines. They cultivate the classic Champagne grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier, all grown on their chalky Sussex soils. These grapes are carefully selected to achieve the perfect balance and fruit characteristics for their sparkling range.

Their portfolio includes a Classic Cuvée, a Blanc de Blancs (made from 100% Chardonnay), and a Rosé, each offering a distinct expression of their terroir. The winemaking process is closely overseen by acclaimed winemaker Dermot Sugrue, ensuring meticulous control from grape to bottle.

Black Dog Hill's commitment to quality is evident in their numerous accolades. Their very first release, the 2011 Classic Cuvée, set a high standard by winning a coveted Gold award from the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC), a Silver from the prestigious Decanter competition, and a Bronze at the International Wine Challenge (IWC).

The family behind Black Dog Hill is committed to sustainable practices, focusing on preserving the natural beauty of the South Downs and enhancing the health of their land.

Discover more of what the beautiful Sussex countryside has to offer:

• Other Vineyards:
  • Court Garden Vineyard (Ditchling)
  • Ridgeview Wine Estate (Ditchling)
• Notable Restaurants:
  • etch. (Brighton) - A Michelin-starred restaurant offering modern British tasting menus.
  • The White Horse (Ditchling) - A traditional village pub offering seasonal, locally sourced dishes.
• Notable Hotels:
  • Ockenden Manor Hotel & Spa (Cuckfield) - A historic manor house with a luxury spa set in beautiful gardens.
  • Artist Residence Brighton (Brighton) - A quirky boutique hotel known for its unique design and vibrant atmosphere.
• Notable Attractions:
  • Ditchling Beacon - An iconic chalky hill and a popular spot for walks with panoramic views across the South Downs.
  • Royal Pavilion (Brighton) - An exotically designed former royal residence, a truly unique piece of architecture.