I always like to support English Tourism Week, because tourists are increasingly important to our local economy, and Visit Kent does good work in trying to attract more visitors our way.
Unfortunately, the week is always at the start of the season (for good reasons) and therefore is vulnerable to the joys of the English weather in March.
This is a long-winded way of explaining why I was at Brabourne Vineyard in the middle of the most dramatic storm. Happily, we could shelter in the restaurant converted from a Second World War Nissan Hut to learn about winemaking and how to turn it into a tourism proposition.
Brabourne is one of dozens of small vineyards which have developed around here in recent years, as well as the more famous big producers like Chapel Down. Almost every village seems to have at least one vineyard, often started as a semi-hobby by a couple who love the idea of becoming winemakers.
There are a number of reasons behind this but the essential driver is climate change. One expert told me that the Kent climate in the 2020s is much the same as the climate in the Loire valley in the 1970s. Therefore, given that the soil has always been very similar and production techniques can be learned, there is a perfectly good reason why Kentish sparkling wine can these days be just as good as champagne, and in some blind tastings better.
Apart from making and selling good wine, many of the vineyards set themselves up for visitors, and have become an important part of the attractions of Kent. Having a network of different places to visit increases the opportunities to capitalise on the “big” attractions like Canterbury Cathedral or Sissinghurst.
Vineyards like Brabourne are often a labour of love for the owners, but they also will play an increasing role in making Kent a desirable destination for those seeking a short break.