From the Vineyard - Rathfinny Wine Estate
Monday 3rd November 2025
From the Vineyard is our wine initiative, celebrating the finest examples of English winemaking.
This month, we are delighted to showcase Rathfinny Wine Estate. The family-owned East Sussex Estate was established in 2010 by husband-and-wife team Mark and Sarah Driver and is dedicated to producing some of the world’s finest vintage sparkling wine from a single-site vineyard in Sussex, England. Since its inception, sustainability has been an important part of Rathfinny’s DNA, culminating in achieving B Corp certification in 2023.
Our Head Sommelier says:
‘I am excited for this November edition of our initiative, "From the Vineyard." Rathfinny Blanc De Noir is an inviting blend of red apple, cherry, and plum that jumps right out of the glass, complemented by subtle notes of honey pastry and citrus. On the palate, there's an immediate vibrancy, driven by lively acidity that leads to a rich, fruit-forward experience. The flavour profile distinctly resembles a Blanc de Noirs, featuring ripe red fruits and hints of yellow plum finishing with a wonderful balance between fruity ripeness and refreshing brightness.’
A selection of other Rathfinny wines will also be available by the glass throughout the month. In addition, only during the month of November, we’ll be serving the Rathfinny Classic Cuvee with our afternoon teas, and crafting a unique cocktail featuring their exceptional wine.
On Thursday, 27th November 2025, we are thrilled to welcome Mark Driver, Rathfinny's founder and owner, to host an exclusive four course wine dinner. With carefully considered pairings, the evening promises a memorable exploration of English sparkling wine alongside Gravetye’s refined seasonal cooking.
Once an arable farm, Rathfinny planted their first vines in 2012 just three miles from the sea near the iconic Seven Sisters cliffs in the South Downs National Park. Rathfinny crafts terroir-driven, vintage wines from grapes grown on south-facing chalk slope. Each bottle is made using the traditional method and guided by a low-intervention philosophy, making their Sussex Sparkling fresh, elegant and characterful.
Click on the links below to find out more about Rathfinny and to secure your places at the dinner.
https://rathfinnyestate.com/about/our-story/
https://www.gravetyemanor.co.uk/whats-on/rathfinny-wine-dinner-thursday-27th-november-2025/
Gravetye Manor & Rathfinny Instagram Giveaway Terms & Conditions
● The giveaway will run from 7pm on Monday 24th November 2025 until midnight on Monday 8th December 2025.
● You must complete the entry requirements stated in the social post:
1. Follow @gravetyemanor and @rathfinnyestates
2. Tag a friend you'd love to enjoy this experience with
● Each tag in a comment box counts as one entry. Enter as many times as you like.
● Competition prize consists of:
○ A Michelin-starred three-course dinner with wine for 2 people at Gravetye Manor with a bottle of Rathfinny Blanc de Noirs 2020 (gifted by Rathfinny) to take home.
○ Wine tour and tasting for two at Rathfinny Estate.
● No cash or credit value can be given as an alternative to the prize.
● No customisation, personalisation or splitting of the prize can be made.
● Entrants must be 18 or over.
● The winner will be solely responsible for their own travel, alongside any other expenses incurred in connection with the prize.
● The winner will need to make their own way to and from the vineyard (BN26 5TU). Full location information can be found here.
● Due to the nature of the prize, this competition is for UK entrants only.
● The winner will be picked at random by the Gravetye Manor team.
● The winner will be contacted by a member of the Gravetye Manor team via direct message – they will need to provide their email address at this time. If the winner does not reply within 48 hours, an alternative winner will be selected.
● Please be aware of hoax accounts, we will only contact you directly from @gravetyemanor or @rathfinnyestates
● The Gravetye Manor dinner must be redeemed by 24th November 2026 and is subject to availability.
● Dinner is three-courses with wine in Gravetye Manor’s Michelin starred restaurant, with a Rathfinny aperitif.
● Specific dietary requirements should be requested at the time of booking your meal.
● The winner can book their dinner at Gravetye Manor Sunday – Thursday.
● The winner will receive an email from both Gravetye and Rathfinny Estate to redeem their prizes.