Top recognition for local wines

A Shropshire vineyard is celebrating after three of its wines were recognised in Oz & Tom's English Wine Heroes 2026, with tasting notes written by two of the UK's best-known wine experts, Oz Clarke and Tom Surgey.

Rowton Vineyard's Red Pinot Noir Précoce, Solaris and Late Harvest Solaris all received glowing reviews following a blind tasting for the annual guide celebrating outstanding English wines.

Among the judges' comments, the Red Pinot Noir Précoce was described as: "Juicy, scented and fruit-forward, medium bodied red... So easy to enjoy, yet complex enough to sit and ponder over. A great example from the Welsh Marches."

The vineyard's Solaris was praised as “Hugely drinkable, juicy and moreish... Excellent wine,” while the Late Harvest Solaris was described as “Lively and moreish – we love!”

Mel and Zoë, the twin sister duo behind Rowton Vineyard said: “We're incredibly proud to have three of our wines recognised by Oz Clarke and Tom Surgey.

"As a small family vineyard in the Welsh Marches, it's wonderful to receive such positive feedback from two of the UK's most respected wine communicators. Their comments are a real testament to the hard work that goes into caring for our vineyard and producing wines that reflect our unique location.”

The tasting notes will appear in the Oz & Tom's English Wine Heroes 2026 booklet, due to be published later this year.

Rowton Vineyard welcomes visitors throughout the season for various events, vineyard tours, tastings and the opportunity to discover English wine produced in the heart of Shropshire.