Milestones
One vintage at a time
Since planting our first vines in 2004, Gusbourne has been dedicated to crafting the finest wines in the world. Our journey is one of ambition, innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence – rooted in tradition but always looking to the future.
Each milestone marks a step in our evolution, from our first harvest to supplying wines for royal celebrations. Discover our story so far.
Deep Roots
1410
The original Gusbourne estate is founded by John de Goosebourne. His family crest, featuring three geese, still adorns Appledore Church and inspires our signature 'goosemark' found on every bottle.
2003
Andrew Weeber, a visionary with roots in Stellenbosch, South Africa, purchases the estate with a bold ambition: to produce world-class English sparkling wine.
2004
The first vines are planted at Appledore, Kent, beginning with Butness vineyard, followed by Cherry Garden and Pond in 2005 and Boot Hill.
Establishing our craft
2006
Our first harvest. The debut vintage is made, setting the foundation for our future.
2010
The first Gusbourne wines are released to critical acclaim, marking the beginning of our reputation as a leading English wine producer.
2012
We are served at the London 2012 Olympics.
2014
Vineyard expansion continues with Commanders, Heartbreak and Mill Hill East in Kent. We also begin working with 29 hectares in West Sussex, adding a hugely important new terroir.
Growth and recognition
2016
Our state-of-the-art winery in Appledore is completed, giving us full control over every step of the winemaking process.
2017
We open The Nest, our award-winning cellar door and tasting room, welcoming guests to experience Gusbourne firsthand. Gusbourne Pinot Noir 2015 is the first English Still Wine to win a Decanter Platinum Award.
2020
A secondary production facility is established at Amsbury, streamlining operations and enhancing logistics.
A Royal connection
2022
Gusbourne is selected to supply the Platinum Jubilee English Sparkling Wine for the Royal Collection.
2022
We launch the inaugural vintage of Fifty One Degrees North, our prestige bottling: it’s a lighthouse for fine English wine.
2023
Gusbourne is commissioned to produce the Royal Collection’s English Sparkling Wine for the coronations of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
2023
Mary Bridges is appointed Head Winemaker, leading Gusbourne into its next era of innovation and excellence.
Looking to the Future
2024
Gusbourne is awarded the prestigious King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, recognising our global impact and continued success. We are named in the Top 50 World’s Best Vineyards.
