Cornwall isn’t just known for its stunning coastlines and charming villages—it’s also quickly becoming a hotspot for wine lovers and craft beer enthusiasts. Thanks to its mild climate and passionate local producers, Cornwall boasts a number of vineyards and breweries, each offering something unique. So, whether you’re an experienced wine connoisseur, a craft beer aficionado, or you just want to explore the local scene while on your travels to Cornwall, this guide will help you discover the best wine tasting and brewery tours in Cornwall.
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What Makes Cornwall’s Wine and Brewery Scene Special?
Cornwall has a distinct wine and brewery scene, shaped by its mild coastal climate. The region is particularly known for its sparkling wines, which have become some of the best in the UK. What I love about Cornwall’s wineries and breweries is the real sense of craft and sustainability. Many local vineyards and breweries pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly methods, which makes the experience feel more authentic. Whether it’s a glass of crisp white wine overlooking a vineyard or a pint of locally brewed ale by the sea, the setting and quality here are truly one-of-a-kind. With that said, let’s get into our list.
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Top Vineyards for Wine Tasting in Cornwall
Camel Valley Vineyard
Camel Valley Vineyard, located near Bodmin, is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. As one of Cornwall’s most acclaimed vineyards, it’s renowned for its award-winning sparkling wines and picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. The vineyard offers guided tours that take you through the vineyards, explaining their process of grape growing and wine making.
During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to taste some of their exquisite wines, including their own Camel Valley Brut and the delicious Pinot Noir.
I highly recommend setting aside a sunny afternoon for this experience. The setting is stunning, and the knowledgeable staff make the visit enjoyable and engaging. It’s a fantastic way to appreciate the craft behind each bottle with a distinctly relaxed environment.
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Polgoon Vineyard
Nestled near Penzance, Polgoon Vineyard is a charming family-run estate that showcases the best of Cornish winemaking. Known for its commitment to organic practices, Polgoon produces a range of wines, including crisp whites, vibrant reds, and delightful rosés.
Polgoon offers informative vineyard tours and tastings, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at their winemaking process. You can explore the vineyard, learn about their sustainable practices to winemaking, and enjoy tasting sessions featuring their award-winning wines.
I found the atmosphere at Polgoon to be warm and welcoming. The staff are passionate about their craft and eager to share their knowledge, making it a great spot for both seasoned wine lovers and newcomers alike. Don’t miss the opportunity to try their elderflower sparkling wine!
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Looe Valley Vineyard
Located just a stone’s throw from the picturesque fishing village of Looe, Looe Valley Vineyard offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts. This newer (established in 2008) artisan vineyard specialises in small-batch wines made from grapes grown right on-site. Visitors can enjoy tours that dive deep into the winemaking process, learning about everything from vine tending to fermentation.
The vineyard opens for tours from Easter Monday through October, with sessions typically held on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Each tour lasts around two hours, but guests are encouraged to linger on the lovely covered terrace overlooking the vines to sip and savour.
The relaxed setting and knowledgeable staff create an inviting atmosphere, and the ‘hands-on approach’ they offered made this one a must-visit for anyone looking to deepen their wine appreciation.
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Trevibban Vineyard
Nestled in the heart of Cornwall’s stunning countryside, Trevibban Vineyard is a family-run gem that prides itself on producing exceptional wines. This vineyard is not only known for its award-winning wines but also for its commitment to sustainable practices and community engagement. The vineyard offers guided tours that take visitors through its lush vines, where you can learn about their farming techniques and the various grape varieties grown on-site.
Trevibban hosts tastings in a beautiful setting, allowing guests to sample a selection of their wines paired with local cheeses. The vineyard’s on-site café offers a delightful range of homemade dishes, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon. Acting as the perfect segue to the next section, Trevibban Vineyard also offers Cider tastings – this makes it the perfect option for big groups since there’s something for everyone!
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Best Brewery Tours and Beer Tastings in Cornwall
St Austell Brewery
Located in the heart of Cornwall, St Austell Brewery is a cornerstone of the local brewing scene. Founded in 1851, this iconic brewery offers visitors a chance to explore its rich history and production processes. Their brewery tours are both informative and engaging, providing insights into how their renowned ales and lagers are crafted. You’ll have the opportunity to sample a range of their award-winning beers, including the famous Tribute Pale Ale and Proper Job IPA.
The brewery also features a stunning visitor centre, complete with a shop where you can purchase your favourite brews and local produce. It’s a perfect stop for both casual beer lovers and enthusiasts looking to experience the best of beer in Cornwall.
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Padstow Tasting Rooms by Padstow Brewing Company
Nestled in the picturesque harbour town of Padstow, the Padstow Tasting Rooms is another must-visit for craft beer fans. This vibrant space showcases the exceptional beers brewed by Padstow Brewing Company.
The tasting rooms offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy flights of their popular brews, from refreshing lagers to rich stouts. They often host special events and food pairings, allowing guests to explore the perfect matches for their favourite beers. The friendly staff is always on hand to share their knowledge and passion for craft brewing, making each visit a unique experience. Alternatively, book a tour of the brewery on their website where you’ll learn all about the Padstow Brewing Company’s brewing process.
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Tips for Planning Your Wine and Brewery Tours in Cornwall
- Check Availability: Before setting your heart on a vineyard or brewery, check their website or give them a call to confirm availability, especially during the winter months. Some places may have limited hours or tours during the off-season.
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- Embrace the Rain: Don’t let a little rain deter you! Tastings and tours can be the perfect indoor activity on a dreary day. The cosy atmosphere of a tasting room or brewery is an excellent way to spend a winter afternoon, enjoying the warmth of local hospitality while trying some of the local delicacies.
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- Book in Advance: To ensure you secure a spot, especially during peak seasons or weekends, it’s advisable to book your tours in advance. This will give you peace of mind and allow you to plan your day around your visits.
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- Plan Your Transport: If you plan to indulge in tastings, consider arranging transport in advance. Many vineyards and breweries are situated in scenic, rural areas, and having a designated driver or using local taxi services will allow you to enjoy your experience worry-free.
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- Combine Visits: If time allows, try to visit multiple locations in one day. Many vineyards and breweries are relatively close to each other, making it easy to create an itinerary that maximises your tasting experience. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like some help with planning your itinerary – we’d love to help out!
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- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to engage with the staff during your tours. They are usually passionate about their craft and can provide you with fascinating insights and recommendations based on your preferences.
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- Enjoy the Experience: Take your time to savour each tasting. Whether you’re trying a crisp white wine or a hoppy IPA, the experience is all about appreciating the unique flavours and the stories behind each drink.
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By keeping these tips in mind, you can make the most of your wine and brewery experiences in Cornwall, even as winter approaches!
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Closing thoughts
Cornwall’s wine and brewery scene is a delightful way to experience the region’s rich agricultural heritage. From the scenic Camel Valley to the vibrant St Austell Brewery, each venue offers unique flavours and unforgettable experiences.
If you’d like some help planning your visit to Cornwall, we can help! We provide bespoke itineraries that are tailored to your needs and party – please don’t hesitate to get in touch!