House of Leonardslee, Vineyard Estate
Vineyard Estate
Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens estate, the magnificent 240-acre woodland property owned by entrepreneur Penny Streeter, houses one of England's most exciting new ventures: House of Leonardslee, a vineyard producing sparkling wines aimed to rival the finest Champagnes.
The vineyard's roots trace back to 2017, when Penny planted the first vines across 37 acres at Mannings Heath Estate, just three miles away, which she acquired in 2016. With over 70,000 vines now under cultivation, Leonardslee expects to harvest around 120 tonnes of grapes in 2023, yielding 85,000 bottles of bubbly.
The vineyard focuses on the classic Champagne varieties: 60% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir and 10% Pinot Meunier. Overseeing production is acclaimed winemaker Johann Fourie, who brings his expertise from Penny's award-winning Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate in South Africa. The first House of Leonardslee wines will be released in 2024, putting this latest addition to the Sussex Wine region firmly on the map, with plans for the estate to join Benguela Cove as one of the Top 100 World’s Best Vineyards.
With its popular wine tastings and vineyard tours, Leonardslee offers a magical experience for visitors. The Grade I listed gardens were first planted in the 19th century by eminent Victorian plant collectors, the Loder family. Many of the rare trees and exotic plants gracing the gardens today are endangered in their native habitats. Meandering pathways reveal seven interconnecting lakes tucked into the valleys below. Walks through the woodlands and parkland allow sightings of grazing wallabies and other wildlife.
The stately Leonardslee House provides another portal into the estate's heritage. Guests can enjoy a classic Afternoon Tea in the Grade II listed Italianate mansion, surrounded by contemporary sculptures from South African artist Anton Smit. In the evening, the Michelin-starred Restaurant Interlude offers a fine dining experience expertly paired with wines from around the world. Ten luxurious bedrooms provide an opportunity to prolong the Leonardslee experience.
No visit is complete without exploring the vineyards first-hand.
Tours by golf buggy allow guests to take in the scale of the vineyards against the beautiful Sussex backdrop. Wine tastings present the chance to appreciate the nuanced flavours of the individual Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier grapes.
The estate also features the first commercial Pinotage vineyard in the UK, celebrating the close ties between English and South African winemaking.
Leonardslee offers an exciting calendar of wine-themed events throughout the year. Wine masterclasses and pairings enable guests to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of the wines. For special occasions, parties can opt for Sabrage - the dramatic champagne cork popping with a sabre. When the weather warms, South African-style 'braais' (barbecues) on the terraces at Leonardslee’s sister property Mannings Heath Estate, create a lively, social atmosphere.
Penny Streeter's purchase of Leonardslee in 2018 and establishment of the vineyard realise her vision for a wine estate as unique as her Benguela Cove vineyard in South Africa. The commitment to celebrating wine, nature, food, arts and design at Leonardslee mirrors her passion for excellence across all her ventures.
For visitors seeking luxury, entertainment and a profoundly uplifting experience of nature's beauty, Leonardslee fits the bill.
The estate's ambitious marriage of English heritage with South African winemaking creativity has birthed a destination poised to propel Sussex onto the global wine tourism stage. Leonardslee is, above all, a personal labour of love for the Streeter family - and that dedication shines through in every perfect bottle produced.
House of Leonardslee Vineyard by Numbers
Acquired 2017
37 Acres, 70,000 vines
2017 First vines planted
120 Tonnes of grapes, estimated 2023 harvest
85,000 Estimated bottles to be produced
Sparkling wine cultivars 60% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir and 10% Pinot Meunier
2024 First release of wine
Owner: The Streeter family
Winemaker: Johann Fourie
MD UK wine operations: Barry Anderson
