Tucked away in the serene Sussex countryside, Oastbrook Estate came alive for its much-anticipated annual Summer Party – a joyful celebration of English wine, Brazilian flair, and warm hospitality, hosted by vineyard owners America and Nick Brewer. The event welcomed Wine Club members and their guests to what co-owner America Brewer described as “a bacchanalia of fun.” With a backdrop of rolling vines and country charm, the day brought together Oastbrook’s latest still and sparkling wine releases, delicious food, and a heady dose of carnival spirit.
“This is the only event where you get to try all of our wines,” said America, who moved to England from Bahia in Brazil and has brought elements of her cultural heritage to the vineyard in joyful, expressive ways. “I always like to share a little bit of my Brazilian culture with music from my country and of course Samba carnival dancers.” And she certainly did. The event combined elegant wine tasting with moments of festive energy, as samba performers and live Brazilian music filled the air, creating a vibrant contrast to the otherwise laid-back English vineyard setting. It’s this duality – a fusion of precision winemaking and celebratory warmth – that defines Oastbrook.
Guests were treated to a Brazilian-inspired BBQ lunch served buffet-style, encouraging relaxed mingling and shared tables under the summer sky. Throughout the afternoon, glasses were kept filled with the full expression of the Oastbrook portfolio. A curated masterclass led by celebrated broadcaster and drinks expert Andy Clarke provided an educational highlight to the festivities.
Clarke, known for his work on Saturday Kitchen Live and This Morning, brought an energetic presence to the tasting, combining storytelling with expert palate notes. His deep knowledge of the UK wine scene made him a fitting host for a party that was as much about learning as it was about leisure. For America and Nick, who lead the tours and tastings themselves throughout the season, the Summer Party is a flagship moment in their calendar. It embodies the philosophy at the heart of Oastbrook – that great wine should be shared, celebrated, and rooted in place.
Oastbrook has quickly earned a reputation as one of England’s most distinctive wine destinations. Known for its innovative and award-winning wines, it also offers immersive vineyard tours, family-friendly experiences, and even luxury accommodation in their Vineyard Hollow. The estate is a founding member in the newly launched Rother Wine Triangle – a tourism initiative supported by Rother District Council that aims to shine a light on the region’s vibrant wine culture.
With its combination of exceptional winemaking, unique personality and warm, welcoming atmosphere, Oastbrook continues to stand apart on the Sussex wine scene. Events like the Summer Party showcase not only the quality of the wines, but the vision and values behind them – a shared love of wine, family, and celebration.
For more information and upcoming events: www.oastbrook.com
