The Vineyard Hotel & Spa, Newbury.
An insightful visit to one of the UK’s most forward-thinking hospitality venues reveals a clear commitment to supporting homegrown wine. The Vineyard Hotel & Spa in Newbury, Berkshire – a five-star Pride of Britain property – has long been revered as a destination for wine lovers, boasting a cellar of over 15,000 bottles. But beyond its international prestige, it is now setting a new benchmark for how English wine is presented, sold, and celebrated in the UK.
At the forefront of this shift is Romain Bourger, Director of Wine & Beverage. With over 14 years at The Vineyard, his impact has been transformative. Named Top Sommelier in the UK (2024) and recipient of The Cateys Wine and Spirit Ambassador Award (2023), Romain Bourger is a passionate advocate for English wine. Under his leadership, the hotel has elevated domestic producers from peripheral mentions to a dynamic, central part of its wine programme.
The English wine list is both extensive and purposeful, showcasing a wide array of producers and styles. Sparkling selections include multiple vintages from Gusbourne, All Angels, The Grange, Exton Park, Chapel Down, and Nyetimber. Still wines are equally well-represented, with excellent examples from Simpsons, Heppington, and Whitehall. This thoughtful curation reflects both regional diversity and the innovation currently driving the English wine scene.
The vineyard has made English wine a cornerstone of its offering – whether for seasoned collectors or those new to the category, the list encourages discovery. The spring menu at The Tasting Room, led by Executive Chef Tom Scade, offers ideal pairings: dishes such as Wye Valley asparagus and Berkshire Downs lamb mirror the seasonality and provenance of the wines.
Crucially, The Vineyard’s work goes far beyond the restaurant floor. A growing programme of events and guest experiences includes Sip & Sketch – creative wine and art pairing evenings in collaboration with All Angels Wine Estate. Looking ahead to English Wine Week, the hotel will host a range of activities designed to deepen understanding and build consumer loyalty around English wine brands. Guided tastings, themed dinners, and interactive classes focused on wine selection and food matching are just some of the initiatives aimed at making wine education engaging and accessible.
By championing English producers, collaborating directly with estates, and investing in staff and guest education, The Vineyard is rebalancing the conversation around wine in the UK. This isn’t just about selling bottles—it’s about fostering a culture of confidence, curiosity, and celebration. A wonderful visit, and an exciting sign of things to come.
Visit the Vineyard hotels website for further details: www.the-vineyard.co.uk
