WINEMAKER BEN WALGAT

"We’re a natural wine producer rooted in the East Sussex countryside"

- ROSIE CLARK

Hidden away down the winding lanes of the East Sussex countryside, you will find Tillingham. A mixed farm dating from the 13th century, it is now home to vineyards, fruit trees, ancient woodland and livestock. In a unique position nestled among 70 acres of rolling hills and woodlands, it has far-reaching views along the Tillingham river valley to the Cinque Port town of Rye, as well as Romney Marsh and the sea. And it’s here that you’ll find farmer and winemaker Ben Walgate. His effervescent passion for natural and biodynamic wine is contagious, and the recently renovated hotel, bar and restaurant he has created are a draw for visitors, too.

‘The initial idea to create this winery came 20 years ago,’ says Ben, who spent his formative years on his father’s North Lincolnshire farm and, later, working in wine bars owned by his mother. Both experiences shaped Ben’s future path in life. After university, he travelled to France and spent time in the vineyards and wineries there, where he came to realise that having his own vineyard was a dream he wanted to pursue. He went on to train in viticulture at Plumpton College, before setting about restoring a vineyard on the Isle of Wight. Soon after, he started working as a winemaker and then became CEO of world-class Kent wine producer Gusbourne Estate (a position he went on to hold for six years). ‘It was during my time working at Gusbourne that I was introduced to the landowner Terence Devonport,’ says Ben, ‘and the plan for Tillingham’s regeneration was set in motion.’