WELSH WINE WEEK: Explore Welsh Wine in the Vale of Glamorgan
Following a successful debut event last year, the second ever ‘Vale Food Trail’ is currently in full swing. This two-week calendar of multi-location events is designed to bring people closer to producers and food businesses in the Vale of Glamorgan - but it also coincides with Welsh Wine Week, meaning there are some great opportunities to visit some local vineyards and try some delicious Welsh wines!
Read on for our pick of the best Welsh Wine Week events at this year’s Vale Food Trail…
VINEYARD TOUR WITH TASTINGS @ ST HILARY VINEYARD (30th May, 6.30pm)
Situated just a mile from Cowbridge, St. Hilary Vineyard boasts a hectare of young vines blending farming tradition with modern techniques. Visit St. Hilary Vineyard for a guided tour of their vineyard, wildflower meadow, and orchard, where they will be showcasing the region's burgeoning wine industry.
Learn about their sustainable farming practices, minimal intervention methods and sustainable principles, where they prioritise selling products like apple and grape juice locally to minimise food miles.
As part of the Vale Food Trail, this vineyard tour includes an optional wine tasting of locally sourced wines as St. Hilary's own wines are still maturing. Tickets are £5pp (plus £5 for additional tastings).
2. WELSH WINE & CHEESE PAIRING @ BARRY ISLAND SPIRIT CO (30th May, 7pm)
Barry Island Spirits Co presents a delightful Welsh Wine & Cheese Pairing event to celebrate Welsh Wine Week. Explore the diverse flavours of Wales with five premium Welsh wines paired with carefully selected Welsh cheeses.
Limited tickets are available for this over-18 event, promising an intimate and friendly atmosphere. Barry Island Spirits Co champion sustainability and local produce, aligning with their focus on promoting Welsh wines and food.
Located in High Street, Barry, the Barry Island Spirits Co Shop and Tasting Room also offers award-winning Barry Island Gin, Rum, and Vodka. Tickets are £30pp.
3. VINEYARD VISIT & TASTING AT TAIR GAFIR WINES (1st & 2nd June, 1pm)
Join Tair Gafr Wines for a Vineyard Visit & Wine Tasting experience. The vineyard opens at 1 pm with complimentary wine upon entry, allowing guests to freely explore, meet the resident animals, and take in the scenery.
This small family-run vineyard, prioritises natural viticulture, ensuring their wines reflect the unique terroir. They offer wine tastings, vineyard tours, and the unique experience of walking alpacas, mini sheep, or pygmy goats through the vineyard. Their first vintage, a refreshing rosé, debuted last year, with a red wine coming soon.
Admission for this event is £5, with an optional guided tour for an additional £5 (booking is essential due to limited space).