Thames Valley · Henley-on-Thames

Fairmile Vineyard

A family-owned, sparkling-only vineyard on steep chalk and flint slopes in the Stonor Valley, a short walk from Henley.

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At a glance

WhereFairmile, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire RG9 2LA

OwnersJan and Anthea Mirkowski

Planted2013. First harvest 2015.

Size7.5 hectares

GrapesChardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier

GroundFlinty chalky marl, part of the chalk band that runs to Dover and under the Channel

Who makes the wineHambledon in Hampshire, a partner winery. Fairmile has no on-site winery.

WinesClassic Cuvée, Rosé, Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs and Founder's Reserve

VisitingTours year-round by appointment. Cellar door Tuesday and Saturday 10am–noon, Thursday noon–2pm.

Ground to glass

Fairmile lies on "the same flinty chalky marl that stretches across South-East England to the white cliffs of Dover, then under the Channel into Northern France" (Fairmile). The steep, sheltered slopes drain quickly after rain. The grapes are made into wine by Hambledon in Hampshire (Vinebound), a great example of a small vineyard working with a specialist partner.

Nick's pick

The Founder's Reserve 2015, from the first harvest, spent around seven years on lees. "English fizz done properly. This is a proper wine."

Want to know how ground, grapes and pressing shape the wine? Read Ground and growing and How sparkling is made.

Our reviews

English sparklingSpecial occasion

Fairmile Founder's Reserve 2015

Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

Seven years on lees. English fizz done properly. This is a proper wine.

Sources

Details marked "Not yet confirmed" are things the vineyard hasn't published. We've asked and will update this page.