Knotfield Vines

What's the vibe?

A vineyard that wants to become a source of local pride, Knotfield Vines was dreamt up by two best friends. Sophie Ellis and Laura Tillerton, who launched the vineyard in Rawdon in 2022. The resulting wines are small-batch, traditional method, and named after the village they come from. The vineyard sits in a conservation area beside the River Aire, framed by centuries-old sycamores and rolling fields. It's a compact operation - two acres, three grape varieties, two founders - but the wines have earned national attention quickly. The debut Rawdon Rosé sold out within six weeks of release and picked up a silver medal at the Wine GB awards. Michelin-starred chef Tommy Banks was an early champion.

Knotfield is a working micro-vineyard rather than a dedicated visitor attraction. Tour & tastings are priced at £45, and are by appointment only.

Knotfield grows three grape varieties - Pinot Noir Précoce, Seyval Blanc, and Bacchus - all suited to Yorkshire's cool, northern climate. Both wines are made using the traditional Champagne method.

Rawdon Classic is the sparkling white: Seyval Blanc brings citrus character and a flinty mineral quality, Bacchus adds fresh-cut grass and floral lift, and Pinot Noir Précoce gives an elegant, refined finish.

Rawdon Rosé Sparkling is the wine that put Knotfield on the map - pale pink with berry notes, elderflower, and fine bubbles. It earned a Wine GB silver medal on its first outing.

Wines are released in limited batches at around £30 a bottle and available via their website.

Rawdon is in West Yorkshire, about 7 miles north-west of Leeds city centre. The vineyard is at Wellroyd Knott Lane, Rawdon, LS19 6JW, accessible from the A65.

By public transport, Guiseley station (Wharfedale and Airedale lines from Leeds) is around a mile and a half from Rawdon village.

Rawdon village

The vineyard sits in the heart of the conservation area - explore the River Aire, the old mill buildings, and the leafy lanes nearby.

Otley and the Wharfe Valley

A few miles west, Otley is a market town with good independent pubs and a riverside setting. The valley running west toward Bolton Abbey is excellent walking country.