Renowned UNESCO World Heritage site seeks established winery to produce world-class co-branded wines.
Blenheim Palace, the iconic 18th century estate and birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, announced today a unique opportunity for an established winery to enter into a long-term partnership to produce co-branded wines on up to 150 acres of the Palace’s land.
Blenheim has identified 150 acres of prime south-facing land on its 12,000-acre estate in the Cotswolds as ideally suited for the production of premium sparkling wine. With 10 acres being average for the size of a vineyard in the UK, this 150-acre parcel represents a once in a lifetime opportunity.
Global property consultancy Knight Frank has been appointed to let the land on behalf of Blenheim Palace and is now seeking a suitable partner, who will have the exclusive rights to plant vineyards and produce wines bearing the Blenheim Palace name and branding.
”Blenheim Palace is one of the most famous and recognisable historic landmarks in all of Britain,” said Ed Mansel Lewis, Head of Viticulture at Knight Frank, “This represents an extraordinary opportunity for a top established winery to join with an elite brand in producing truly distinctive English wines.”
In addition to the land, the partner will have the option to establish a small showcase vineyard within the Palace’s famed walled gardens, adjacent to the Palace itself in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site visited by over 1 million people annually.
The successful applicant will have access to numerous direct to consumer sales channels by selling the Blenheim-branded wines directly through the Palace’s restaurants, gift shops, events and other consumer channels. Applications from wineries of all sizes are encouraged, with flexible business models including tenancy, joint venture or share-farming agreements.
Mansel Lewis added: “With its storied heritage, remarkable architectural beauty and unparalleled visitor ambassador connections, Blenheim Palace offers an aspirational brand association that few wine producers could ever attain. The Estate’s picturesque setting in the Cotswolds offers ideal growing conditions with cooler temperatures and dry soil that provide huge potential for cultivating premium wine grapes.”
The land would be ready to start planting vines in May 2026, kicking off a 4-5-year process to get vineyard operations up and running over an expected 30-year term agreement. This venture represents a huge business opportunity and significant investment for the future according to Knight Frank.
Roy Cox, Managing Director – Estates of Blenheim Palace said: “In a world where we know the UK is growing exceptional wines on a global stage, this new partnership is a truly unique opportunity to combine 300 years of history at a World Heritage Site, to our land and in doing so create thriving businesses to support the local economy through new and existing outlets. We hope to find a partner who shares our purpose, values, and vision for this opportunity. It’s a chance to create a legacy at such a crucial time for UK rural businesses.”
ENDS
For more information, please contact:
Kristy Watt
Residential PR Manager
Rural Consultancy & Residential Development & Investment
Knight Frank
M: 07974 860573 | E: kristy.watt@knightfrank.com