Kieran Mullan, MP for the Bexhill and Battle constituency, marked English Wine Week (21 to 28 June) by highlighting the growing success of the English wine industry and the important role local vineyards play in supporting jobs, tourism and rural communities across the Bexhill and Battle constituency.
As part of English Wine Week, Kieran visited Oastbrook Vineyard in Bodiam, where he met owners Nick and America Brewer to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing English wine producers and the contribution vineyards make to the local economy. The visit also celebrated the growing profile of the Rother Wine Triangle, Sussex's first official wine trail.
The constituency is home to a number of outstanding vineyards, including Oastbrook Vineyard, Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard, Mountfield Winery, Oxney Organic Estate, and Henners which are helping to establish the area as a leading destination within the internationally recognised Sussex wine region.
The English wine sector has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, with Sussex becoming the first UK wine region awarded Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status in 2022, recognising the unique quality and character of wines produced in the county.
Wine tourism is becoming an increasingly important part of Sussex's visitor economy. The wider Sussex visitor economy contributes around £5 billion annually and supports approximately 74,000 jobs, while industry plans estimate wine tourism could generate £283 million of economic impact and more than 3,600 jobs by 2040.
Kieran Mullan MP said:
"English Wine Week is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate one of Britain's great rural success stories. It was a pleasure to visit Oastbrook Vineyard and meet Nick and America Brewer to hear about the excellent work they are doing here in Bodiam.
"The success of English wine is something we can be incredibly proud of. Vineyards across Bexhill and Battle are producing world-class products while creating jobs, supporting apprenticeships and bringing investment into our rural communities.
"The Rother Wine Triangle is helping put our area on the map as a destination for visitors. People come not only to enjoy our vineyards, but also to support local pubs, restaurants, accommodation providers and attractions.
"What's particularly encouraging is how many vineyards have diversified, offering holiday accommodation, tours, tastings and events alongside wine production. That strengthens the visitor economy, supports local businesses and showcases the very best of our countryside.
"The future for English wine is incredibly bright, and our local vineyards are playing a major part in that success story."
Oastbrook Vineyard owners Nick and America Brewer said:
"We are greatly encouraged by the strong collaboration between local vineyards, local authorities and hospitality businesses, all working together to champion and support our wines. That partnership is helping to raise the profile of the region, attract more visitors and create new opportunities for the local economy and rural communities."
